Outbuilding (shed)

Outbuildings in multiple dwellings, commercial developments, or caravan parks

All outbuildings associated with these property types require Development (Planning) Approval.

Single houses or grouped dwellings

Small outbuildings (not more than 10m²), Development (Planning) Approval is typically not required for your outbuilding provided it meets the following requirements:

Small outbuildings (less than 10m²)

• Boundary setbacks: No more than two walls should be closer than 600mm to any boundary.
• Street setbacks: The outbuilding should not be located within the street setback area as defined by your R-Code density (see table below).
• Height: Wall and roof ridge heights must not exceed 2.7m from the natural ground level.
• Open space and outdoor living area: The site must still meet the open space and outdoor living area requirements for your R-Code density (refer to setback requirements below).

Large outbuildings (greater than 10m²) or multiple outbuildings (combined size exceeding 10m²)

• Size: The combined area of all outbuildings should not exceed 60m² or 10% of the site area, whichever is smaller.
• Boundary setbacks: A minimum setback of 1m from side and/or rear boundaries is required for lengths up to 14m; for longer outbuildings, a 1.5m setback is needed. Boundary walls closer than 600mm may be permitted if compliant with R-Codes and local planning policies.
• Street setbacks: Outbuildings should not encroach upon the street setback area designated by your R-Code density (see table below).
• Height: Wall height must not exceed 2.4m, and roof ridge height must not exceed 4.2m from the natural ground level.
• Open space and outdoor living area: Compliance with the open space and outdoor living requirements for your R-Code density is required (refer to setback requirements below).

Additional requirements that may apply

Additional requirements may apply to small and large/multiple outbuildings in these situations:

• Visibility from street: Outbuildings visible from the street should incorporate materials, roof pitch and roof style similar to the existing house.
• Higher dual-density R-Code: Specific rules apply if the construction impacts landscaping areas or involves tree removal.
• Structure Plan or Local Development Plan Areas: Properties within these designated areas may be subject to additional or differing requirements. 

Not sure of your R-Code or if your property is in a structure plan area? Insert your address into our online mapping system to view the R-Code and structure plan details. Contact the City of you need assistance.

Setback and open space requirements

The setback requirements depend on your property's R-Code density. 

Please note: For dual-density codes, if the property is not developed to the higher density, adhere to the R20 setback requirements.

If your project does not comply with the requirements set out in Step 1 above, you will need to apply for Development (Planning) Approval. This requires submitting an application form, along with building plans and a cover letter. Application fees will apply.

For detailed information, refer to the Requirements for Planning Applications.

The National Construction Code sets nationwide standards for building design and construction, focusing on safety, health, and amenity.

A building permit is not required if the structure meets all the following conditions:

• Is freestanding
• Has a floor area not exceeding 10m²
• Is no taller than 2.4m in height
• Is installed according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

If the above conditions are not met, you will require a building permit.
 

You have two options when applying for a Building Permit:

• Certified application: Lodge a BA1 form, accompanied by a Certificate of Design Compliance (BA3 form) signed by a registered building surveyor, confirming compliance with building standards.
• Uncertified application: Lodge a BA2 form, and the Uncertified Building Application Checklist - Outbuilding (PDF). 

You can download BA1 and BA2 forms from the Department of Energy, Mines, Industry, Regulation and Safety website.

For more detailed information, including the application form, checklist, assessment process, and fees can be found on the Requirements for Building Applications page.