Sheds, Pergolas, Patios and Shade Sails
What building permits are required for sheds, pergolas, patios and shade sails?
Sheds
A Building Permit is required for outbuildings greater than 10m². One outbuilding less than 10m² and under 2.4m in height is permitted without a building permit.
Pergolas
A pergola is an open-framed structure used for shading and screening, with a permeable roof cover such as shade cloth, lattice, or timber battens. The primary difference between a patio and a pergola is the roof cover. Patios have ridged, impermeable roofs.
A proposed unenclosed pergola that is more than 20m2 in area and/or is more than 2.4m in height will require a building permit.
Patios
A patio is an open sided structure enclosed on no more than half of its perimeter with a roof cover that is impervious to water such as colourbond or polycarbonate sheeting and used for outdoor entertainment.
A building permit is not required for a patio that is:
- freestanding; and
- has a floor area not exceeding 10m2; and
- is no more than 2.4m in height
A building permit application will be required if the proposed patio does not meet the above criteria. In addition, Planning Approval may be needed.
Shade Sails
A shade sail is a piece of permeable fabric that is fixed to timber or metal posts.
Any proposed shade sail more than 10m2 in area and/or is more than 2.4m in height will require a building permit.
For further enquiries regarding building or planning advice on sheds, pergolas, patios and shade sails, please contact the Shire on 9671 2500.