Shed Building Permits in Australia: What You Need to Know

Before you start buying supplies and breaking ground on your dream shed, there’s one crucial step you can’t afford to skip: checking if you need a building permit for a shed. Whether you’re building a compact garden shed or a large workshop, understanding the permit requirements is essential to avoid fines, delays, or worse, having to remove your shed entirely.

At Best Sheds, we believe the process of building your shed should be as smooth, enjoyable, and stress-free as possible. That’s why we’ve put together this complete guide to help you better understand shed building permit requirements across Australia, ensuring compliance without snags from day one.

Do You Need a Building Permit for a Shed in Australia?

The short answer is yes, although there are exceptions we will address later. In Australia, permits to build a shed are usually required based on the following factors:

• The size and height of the shed
• Its location on your property
• Whether it’s attached to another structure
• Its intended use (e.g., storage vs. living space)
• Your local council’s regulations

Most states require a permit if the shed:

• Is larger than 10–20 square metres
• Is higher than 2.4 metres
• Has plumbing or electrical connections
• Is being built in a flood-prone or bushfire zone
• Will be used as a habitable structure

Even if you’re thinking, ‘I’m just building a shed, do I need a permit?’, it’s always safest to check with your local council.

• Explore Our Sheds today and select one that meets the shed building permit requirements in your area.

When Do You Not Need a Building Permit for a Shed?

In many cases, temporary structures or smaller sheds may not require a permit; however, this varies by state. Examples where permits may not be needed include:

• Garden sheds under 10m² (with no electricity or plumbing)
• Sheds that are not on a permanent foundation
• Structures under 2.4m in height
• Sheds located behind the building line and within set boundary distances
• Rural zones with larger land areas may have more relaxed rules

It is essential to note that, even if permits to build a shed aren’t required, some councils still require notification or approval for placement and materials.

• Check out our handy Buying Guides for further insights into selecting the right shed for your space and needs.

How to Apply for a Building Permit for a Shed

Applying for a shed building permit is generally straightforward when you’re organised and prepared. The step-by-step process is as follows:

• Contact your local council
  Start by contacting your local council’s planning or building department or by visiting their website. Ask about:
  • Size limits
  • Zoning laws
  • Any overlays (e.g., flood zones, heritage areas)
    
• Prepare your document
  You’ll typically need:
  • A completed permit application form
  • Shed plans and dimensions (Best Sheds will provide these)
  • Site plans showing exact shed placement
  • Engineering certification (if required)
  • Details on the slab or foundations
    
• Submit your application and pay any fees
  Applications can usually be submitted online or in person. Fees vary depending on your council and the size and complexity of your build.
  
  
• Await a decision
  Councils can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks to reach a decision. During this time, they may request to inspect the site or ask for modifications to your plans.
  

Pro tips:

• Stick to the allowed height and setback rules
• Ensure proper site drainage
• Keep your shed away from fences, overhead wires, and easements

If you’re ready to get started, why not request a quote today and receive detailed shed specifications to help with your permit application?

Common Reasons Why a Shed Building Permit is Denied

• Non-compliance with zoning laws
  If your property is located in a special use zone or overlay, such as a floodplain or bushfire-prone area, modified plans or additional documentation may be required.
• Incorrect or incomplete documentation
  False or missing information, such as an inaccurate site plan or engineering report, can delay your application or derail it entirely.
• Shed size or height exceeds local limits
  Even a shed that exceeds the height limit by a few centimetres can lead to rejection or require special approval.
• Proximity to boundaries or easements
  Building too close to fences, power lines, or drainage easements without proper setbacks is a common issue.
  • For more answers to tricky questions, please explore our informative FAQs

How to Ensure Compliance with Shed Building Permit Regulations

• Talk to a professional
  Even if you’re planning to construct your shed, consulting with an expert beforehand ensures you’re building within the law.
• Choose engineered sheds
  At Best Sheds, we offer custom-engineered designs that meet or exceed national building codes, helping fast-track council approval.
• Plan your site layout carefully
  Make sure your chosen location avoids overhead hazards and boundary breaches and doesn’t block access paths.
• Get the foundation right
  Whether you’re using a concrete slab or piers (vertical supports), your shed base must meet structural and drainage standards.
  • Are you weighing up the pros and cons of DIY vs. hiring a builder? Compare your options and assess your tools and skill set objectively to determine what works best for you.

Why Choose Best Sheds for Your Shed Building Project?

At Best Sheds, we do more than just deliver high-quality sheds; we help ensure your project runs smoothly from planning to council approval and beyond.

You can expect:

• Expert guidance on shed building permit requirements across all Australian states
• High-quality sheds designed for structural integrity and council compliance
• Products engineered from BlueScope Australian steel, backed by a 20-year manufacturer’s warranty
• Detailed engineering plans to support your building application
• 20% Best Price Guarantee
• Expert customer service and support for installation and setup, whether DIY or via a professional

Contact Best Sheds for Shed Building Permits and More

Are you ready to build your perfect shed, but not sure where to start with permits? We’re here to help. With over 150 years of combined experience and an unwavering commitment to excellence, we make the shed-building process simple, compliant, and stress-free.

• Contact us today for tailored advice and a no-obligation quote