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Carports, Patios and Pergolas

Definition of common terms

Patio

An open-framed structure covered in a permeable roofing material or remain uncovered. Pergolas may or may not be attached to a dwelling.

Carport

An open-framed structure covered in an impermeable roofing material which may or may not be attached to a dwelling for the purpose of housing vehicles.

Pergola

An open-framed structure covered in a permeable roofing material or remain uncovered. Pergolas may or may not be attached to a dwelling. 

 

Building exemptions

Patios / carports

A Building Permit is not required provided the patio/carport complies with all of the following:

  • The structure has a maximum floor area of 10m²; and
  • The maximum height is 2.4m.

Pergola

A Building Permit is not required provided the pergola complies with all of the following:

  • The structure has a maximum floor area of 20m²; and
  • The maximum height is 2.4m.

In all other instances a Building Permit is required.

Design requirements

Patios, pergolas and carports are required to be setback from lot boundaries.

Setback distances vary depending on the type of structure and zoning of the property.

A setback variation may be granted upon submission of a planning application to the Shire’s Planning Services

Timber framed patio, carport and pergolas must be designed and constructed in accordance with AS 1684.2- 2010 (Residential Timber-Framed Construction).

The plans provided should clearly demonstrate compliance with the above standard.

Structural Engineering may be necessary; however, it will be at the discretion of the Building Surveyor assessing the plans as to whether it is required.

Steel framed patio, carport and pergolas are to be designed and certified by a registered Structural Engineer

Patio, carport and pergolas in bushfire prone areas and proposed within 6 metres of a residence (Class 1 building), are required to be constructed according to Australian Standards 3959- 2018 Construction of buildings in a bushfire prone area if:

  • The associated residence was constructed during or after 2014; or
  • The proposed building work exceeds $20,000

Building a patio, carport or pergola

Step 1: Application for Building Permit

Step 2: Assessment -

Building permit applications either certified or uncertified are usually assessed and approved within 10 business days.

Building permits are sent to the builder via post. 

Step 3: Submit a Notice of Completion

Under the Building Act 2011, the owner or builder must notify the Shire that the work is completed by submitting a BA7 Notice of Completion Form, which is attached to the building permit.