Patio

An open-framed structure with an impermeable roof covering which may or may not be attached to a dwelling. Patios are designed for recreation and entertaining purposes.

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. 

Setbacks

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 construction

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 construction

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

Bushfire prone areas

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.

Step 1: Application for Building Permit

You will need to complete an Application for building permit – uncertified (BA2).

Ensure you include:

• The owner’s details, construction materials and costings
• Signature by Builder
• Applicant’s contact details
• Construction Training Fund levy payment form (required for building works with a value greater than $20,000)
• Site plan drawn to scale showing the following:
  • Location and dimensions of the proposed patio, carport and pergola
  • Location of all existing structures on the property
  • Measurement from the boundaries to the proposed, patio, carport and pergola
  • Location of septic tanks and leach drains (if applicable).
• Construction details drawn to scale showing:
  • Detailed floor plan and elevations
  • Footing and connection details
  • Cross-section details
  • Construction details showing materials used, sizes, spacing and spans of structural members
• Structural Engineer’s Certification (all steel frame patio, carport and pergolas will require certification by a registered structural engineer
• Bushfire Attack Level Report (BAL) if required.

Refer to Building Permit and Fee Calculator. 

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.