Toowoomba Council Shed Building Requirements
Are you thinking of adding a shed to your Toowoomba property? Good call! We’re glad you’re doing a bit of research on it too, because the more you know, the easier your shed-building journey will be!
There are different rules and regulations around building a shed in your backyard depending on where you are in Queensland. You definitely want to stay on the right side of the Toowoomba Regional Council shed building regulations. They ensure you’re building a high-quality structure, and being compliant will prevent any legal issues from arising.
We’ve put together a guide on what the requirements are for Toowoomba residents wanting to add a shed to their property. We’d always recommend getting in touch with council anyway to go over the specifics. And remember, if Stockman Sheds builds your shed for you, we take care of all your local council compliance requirements!
Do I Need Council Approval to Build My Shed?
There are some backyard structures that don’t require council approval, because they’re simply too small. Size is the key here, with most people in Toowoomba wanting a shed of decent capacity. Bearing that in mind, then building approval will be required if any of the following points apply to your shed:
The shed is larger than 10m2 (found by multiplying length x width)
It has a mean height of more than 2.1-metres, or a maximum height of more than 2.4-metres
The length of any side exceeds 5 metres
The shed is attached to another building, i.e. not a standalone structure.
If you’d like a bit more intel on the above, speak to one of the Stockman shed builders.
Boundary Setbacks for Toowoomba Sheds
When you build a shed, it needs to be a minimum distance away from your boundaries. This is known as a setback, and they are very important rules in residential construction. Toowoomba Regional Council has setback rules that are as follows:
No structure to go up less than six-metres from the road boundary.
A boundary setback of 1.5 metres is to be observed for sheds up to 4.5-metres in height.
A boundary setback of 2 metres for sheds up to 7.5 metres high.
If you want a shed built closer to the boundaries, there are certain exemptions that may allow you to do so. For more information on them, speak to one of our team members.
There are certain exceptions that allow sheds, carports or garages to be built up to the side and rear boundaries. Talk to a member of the Stockman team and we’ll be able to tell you more!
Building Codes and Standards
When you decide to build a tailor-made Toowoomba shed, you want peace of mind knowing its a high quality structure. In Queensland and around Australia, we have a set of building codes that give you exactly that.
When you build, you’ll need to stay compliant with the following building codes and laws:
The Building Act 1975, chapters three and four
Any local law or local planning instrument the Building Act 1975 allows to apply to the assessment
The Queensland Development Code
The Building Code of Australia.
Here’s a not-so-well-kept secret - at Stockman Sheds, we know these rules inside out. We’ve been building sheds for years that adhere to them, and would love to guide you with them.
Your Shed and Council Infrastructure
When deciding on a location for your shed, as well as boundary setbacks it is vital you take note of council infrastructure (such as sewage and stormwater drainage). You don’t want to jeopardise any underground services.
There is mapping software available online to assist you in seeing what’s near or under your property. Check it out here. As always, if you have any questions the Stockman crew are here to help!
Toowoomba Shed Builders Who Do It All For You
Council Approvals, building codes and boundary setbacks - it all gets a bit confusing! There’s a way around it though: get the shed experts on your side! Stockman Sheds have a gun team of builders based in Toowoomba who know the legislation here inside out.
When you enlist us to design and build your shed, you’ll get that dream custom shed you’ve always wanted. We’ll also take care of all the legalities and compliance for you, from building approvals to site location! Sound like a seamless Aussie shed-building experience? It is! Click here to chat with us about it.
