Council Approvals

Your new Patio Cover will generally require approval, but we can help you with this process.

Generally, any structure attached to a dwelling or any free-standing structure that is 10 sq meters (about 3m x 3m) and over would require Council approval. In limited circumstances, exceptions may be applicable.

How Close Can I Build To My Property Boundary?

Patios:

• 1.5m from the side or rear boundary (2m if Patio Cover is located on a first floor level)

• 6m setback from the front boundary

Relaxation to these measurements may be granted in some circumstances. For example, a Patio may be allowed to be built within 900mm of a boundary providing neighboring parties have no legitimate objections and Council also approve. In some cases you may build on the property line, providing a fire-resistant wall is constructed to the height of the new roof. However, this may not be considered an economically viable option.

Carports:

• If less than 9m in length, the structure can be built within 1.5m of any side or rear boundary (when calculating total length, this includes any existing structures on the boundary).

• Can be built within the standard 6m setback from the front boundary; however, numerous conditions need to be considered.

• Setback distances apply generally to normal residential lots, small lots and unit sites. Acreage lots have different requirements under different local planning schemes.

What About Storm Water?

Roof water must be either piped to the street or connected to the existing house storm water system. Should either of these options not be possible, it may be connected to a rubble pit. The rubble pit must be a minimum of 1 cubic meter in volume and 3m from any boundary.

Can I Get Help With The Council Application?

Yes! Altec will be happy to show you what is required to make your Council Application or will make the Council Application on your behalf. Apart from the standard council fees, there is no additional charge for this service