What can I build?

Any deck, regardless of height or size, must be setback a minimum of 900mm from the allotment boundary or from the residential dwelling at all times to comply with BCA fire separation requirements.

NOTE: Any proposed deck raised more than 500mm above natural ground level and within 7.5m of an adjoining property would be required to install a privacy screen to comply with the visual privacy requirements of the Residential Design Codes (R-codes). Please contact the City's Statutory Planning Services team on (08) 9273 6000 for more information.

Do I need a building permit?

A Building Permit is required for a deck, regardless of the height it is raised above natural ground level. Decks that are raised more than 500mm above natural ground level will require structural engineering certification.

How long does it take to get a building permit for a deck?

The time frame depends on the type of building permit application that is submitted - Certified (BA1) or Uncertified (BA2). The Building Regulations 2012 sets out the time frames in which the City has to assess and determine an application.

It is important that all relevant documentation for the proposed deck is submitted with your building permit application. Should further information is required by the City in order to assess the application, the applicant has 21 calendar days to provide the requested information. If it is not received within that stated time frame, the application may be refused unless a written request for an extension of time to submit the information has been received and granted by the City prior to the expiry of the 21 days.

Certified Building Applications (BA1)

A certified building permit application can be submitted for a deck.

A private Building Surveying Practitioner would need to be engaged to assess the documentation for the deck and issue a Certificate of Design Compliance. 

The City has up to 10 business days from the date of lodgement to assess the application and issue a Building Permit.

NOTE: A Building Surveying Practitioner Register can be downloaded from the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety website.

Uncertified Building Applications (BA2)

An uncertified building permit application can be submitted for Class 10 structures such as a deck.

The City has up to 25 business days from the date of lodgement to assess the application and issue a Building Permit. The City will issue a Certificate of Design Compliance as part of the application process. 

How long until my permit expires?

A Building Permit is generally valid for two years from the date on which it was granted.

If more time is required to complete the building works, you can apply for an extension of time by making a formal application and paying the prescribed fee. The application to extend a building permit must include:

• The reference number of the building permit, and
• The reasons for requesting the extension, and
• The period for which the extension is sought. 

NOTE: The application for an extension of time must be lodged before the expiry of the building permit.

What happens when I have completed my building works?

The nominated builder on the Building Permit must submit a BA7 Notice of Completion form to the City within seven days of completing the prescribed building works. A failure to do so could incur a fine of $10,000.