No matter whether you are having a custom shed designed or you are buying one directly from the store, understanding the regulations that your local council has in place will be important. With this in mind we are going to focus specifically on Victoria today, and take a look at what is required when you are looking to build or install a shed on your property here. When it comes to sheds, garages and even custom carports Victoria has a specific set of rules and regulations which must be adhered to. Failure to meet these requirements could easily result in a fine or worse, so being informed is always best.
Sheds
When it comes to store bought or custom sheds Victoria is actually quite flexible around what you can do. The rules in fact are very simple and you are only likely to require permission should you be looking to build a large shed. If your shed is larger than 2.4 meters in height or more than 10 meters squared, you will need a permit. Additionally if you are going to build the shed within 1 meter of the boundary or if you are attaching to the building to another structure, it is worth seeking advice to see if you need a permit.
Garages
In most cases the garage construction will require a building permit, unless it is smaller than the regulations listed, which is unlikely for garages. Now for most custom garages Victoria requires a permit as well as some additional details. For example if the work will cost more than $16,000, including materials, then you must ensure that you have domestic building insurance. If the work will cost over $10,000 then you must register a major domestic building contract. Additional rules include the requirement of using registered builders and licensed plumbers if you require water access.
Carports
Carports follow a mixture of the regulations which we have already seen with the construction of sheds and garages. In most cases a carport is likely to exceed the size limits which are in place to build a shed, which will mean that you have to get a permit. Rarely will costs of a carport rise above the minimums for a garage, regarding labor costs and materials. With this in mind it is likely that a basic permit is all you will need for this kind of construction.
Final Details
Each council does differ which is why you should seek advice if you are in any doubt about your requirements for the construction you have planned. Although it may seem like a problem, the reality is that applying for and having a permit granted is a very easy process. All local councils have application forms on their respective websites, and all you need is the measurements and the details of the build you have planned.
Always ensure that you have met the requirements and secured your building permit, before you kickstart any building work on your property.