Do I Need Approval?

You are required by law to submit an application for planning approval and a building licence if you intend to construct various structures. 

Approval required

Both planning and building approvals are required and seperate applications must be made for each. Planning approvals must be granted prior to obtaining building approval. The follow are some examples of what needs approval:

• Demolitions
• Single, grouped, or multiple dwellings
• Any external additions to a house (building licence required for internal additions)
• Any type of pergola, patio, cabana or vergola 
• Carports and sheds
• Swimming pools
• Tennis courts and lighting
Filling and retaining land (retaining walls)
• Re-roofing a building
• Change of use
• Home Businesses
• Satellite dishes
• Solar collectors
• All front fences 
• Dividing fences greater than 1.8m above natural ground level (these require an over height dividing fence agreement to be signed by the applicant and the adjoining owner)
• Commercial, industrial, retail uses

Approval may be required

The follow are some examples of what may need approval:

• Fence alterations
• Landscaping works

If in doubt, please contact the City's Planning or Building departments to confirm whether you require approval.

Approval is not required

The follow do not require approval:

• Dividing fences less than 1.8m above natural ground level (but not in the front setback area)
• Home Occupations
• Internal alterations (building licence required for internal additions)