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How to get council approval for your shed plans

So you want to build a shed? There are an array of real benefits of building a shed or a similar structure on your commercial or residential property – more space, better storage capability, and ultimately, if it’s done well, added value to your home or business premises. You do, however, need to follow your local council guidelines and get formal shed council approval to comply with necessary legal requirements and to help avoid any neighbour disputes.

Shed Council Approval

Building a shed or a similar structure of any kind requires more than simply choosing your design and having it built. Shed council approval is essential and requirements will differ between different council localities. There is, however, a general council approval process throughout Australia. This is a great starting point for you, but you will also need to contact your local council to understand specifics for your area and to get the application process underway.

Do I Need Council Approval?

In almost all cases, council approval will be required for your proposed shed. While there may be some exceptions to the rule, these are few and far between so you really need to be certain. Yes, it can be a nuisance, but by getting approval formalised before you even lay your concrete slab, you’re potentially avoiding a world of pain down the track!

What if I don’t bother with shed council approval?” you ask? It may seem tempting, especially if you only want a small shed or carport – but don’t be fooled! Erecting an unapproved shed may result in a legal order to tear it down. Retrospective approval sought after building is virtually impossible to gain, and even if you’re successful, the process can take years and cost you a fortune (literally). In the longer term, if you don’t have council approval for all structures on your property (including sheds, carports, decks, etc), you will have issues with conveyancing when it comes time to sell.

General Tips for Getting Council Approval for Your Shed

  • Have professional plans drawn up for your preliminary shed design (your supplier can usually do this for you).
  • Contact your local council and start the ball rolling on the process. You should receive feedback on your proposal; some design modifications may be required. If so, refine your design. You may simply receive notification that your design complies with local guidelines.

You will need to provide the following information:

  • The type of shed – a sketch (at the very least) showing dimensions
  • The shed’s proposed use/purpose
  • Access to the shed – provide site layout plans including the proposed location of the shed
  • Submit a formal application. You may be advised to tweak your shed design; if so, make necessary alterations and send the application back to council. You’ll need to include plans, engineering documentation, and elevations.

Once you receive approval from the council, you can go ahead and order your shed and begin the installation process.

Some sheds are exempt from council approval – though this varies widely between councils. Even if it turns out you don’t need specific approval for your shed, you need to make sure from the outset and have written notification of the exemption. You’ll also need, regardless of this, to make sure that your shed complies with the relevant local building codes and legislation. This applies to shed size, siting/placement, elevation, zoning, and structure.

Lockyer Sheds – Your Premium Choice

At Lockyer Sheds, we know our business. All our sales staff are fully qualified and accredited as Shed-Safe Accredited salespeople, giving you the peace of mind you need to know that the shed that you are having designed and built by us meets all the expected conditions and compliances. Contact us today by phone or online for a quote and advice, and don’t forget to include details of your geographic location.