The time frame can vary depending on the complexity of the project. With our Plans and Building Permit bundle, it typically takes between 2–4 weeks if no dispensations are required.

At Prime Drafting, we streamline the process by preparing precise architectural plans and managing all necessary documentation. If additional approvals like Planning Permits or Report & Consent are needed, timelines may extend.

You’ll need a Building Permit for your Shed if any of the following applies:

• Size: Larger than 10m² in total area

• Height: Taller than 3.0m overall

• Boundary Proximity: 2.4m or higher when built within 1 meter of a boundary

• Attachment: Connected or attached to another structure

• Pergolas: A pergola has no roof. Generally, pergolas do not need a building permit if they are under 20 square meters in size, under 3.6 meters high, and not located forward of the front wall of the house.

• Verandahs: A verandah has a roof. All verandahs require a building permit with no exemptions.

Yes, Decks are considered outdoor living spaces and needs a building permit.

• Above Ground Spas & Pools:

Relocatable spas and pools do not require a building permit. However, safety barriers around them must have a building permit.

• Inground or Semi-Inground Pools:

There are no exemptions for In-ground or Semi-inground pools. These pools must have a building permit.

You’ll need a Building Permit for your Carport if any of the following applies:

• Size: Larger than 10m² in total area

• Height: Higher than 3.0m (or 2.4m within 1 meter of a boundary)

• Attachment: Connected or attached to another structure

In Victoria, the building regulations set minimum setback distances for different types of structures near property boundaries. Here’s what you need to know:

• Verandahs and Decks: Must be set back at least 1 meter from the side or rear boundary. Verandahs can encroach closer — by up to 500mm — but any closer placement requires fire protection measures to prevent fire spread.

• Carports and Sheds: Can either be built within 200mm of the boundary or set back 1 meter or more — but not anywhere in between. Carport are exempt from fire protection requirements as long as they have two open sides making up at least one-third of the total perimeter.

• Spas and Pools: Are exempt from standard siting setback rules, meaning they can be placed anywhere on the property, provided they comply with pool safety barrier regulations.

If your project doesn’t meet these setback rules, you may still have options. Through a process called Report & Consent, we can apply to your local council to build closer to the boundary. However, this process involves additional costs, formal assessment, and can take several weeks for approval.

Additionally, some properties have specific zoning schedules that require greater setback distances than the standard building regulations, and these rules override the usual allowances.

Yes, detailed architectural plans are required to apply for a Building Permit in Victoria for projects like verandahs, decks, carports, sheds, or pools/spas. These plans must include precise measurements, structural details, and compliance with local council regulations, such as setback distances and safety standards. At Prime Drafting, we specialize in creating accurate, council-compliant architectural plans tailored to your project.

Need help with your permit plans? Contact us at 03 7044 1930 to get started!

Modifying an existing verandah or deck in Victoria often requires a new Building Permit, especially if the changes affect the structure, size, or proximity to boundaries. Minor repairs may not need a permit, but significant alterations, like expanding a deck or altering a verandah’s roofline, typically do.

Prime Drafting can assess your existing structure during a site visit, create updated architectural plans, and handle the permit application process to ensure compliance with council regulations.

• Planning Permit:

Issued by the local council, this permit allows specific uses or

developments on land. You may need to engage a town planner to

determine if your project requires a planning permit.

• Building Permit:

A written approval by a private or municipal building surveyor,

allowing construction according to approved plans and

specifications.

If your property requires town

planning approval, the building surveyor cannot issue a building

permit until this approval is obtained from the council.

Building permits in Victoria have varying validity periods

depending on the type of construction. All building work must

start within 12 months of the permit issue date.

• Verandah, Decks, sheds, and carports:

Work must commence within 12 months and be completed within 24

months of the permit issue date.

• Swimming Pools & Barriers or Fences:

Work must commence within 12 months of the permit issue date and

be completed within 6 months of starting.

We can assist you in obtaining a building permit from start to finish with our comprehensive plans and permit services: • Preparation of Architectural Plans: We will prepare the architectural plans for your project, ensuring they comply with the Building Code of Australia, the Building Act 1993, the Building Regulations 2018, and any other relevant guidelines and standards.

• Permit Application: Once the plans are ready, we will submit the building permit application to one of our panel of building surveyors on your behalf and obtain the building permit.