Do you need council approval for a shed?

When you’re planning to build a shed, a crucial question to address early is whether planning permission is required.

Regulations vary widely depending on your state, local council and the zoning of your property.

If you live in NSW, the size allowance before you need to notify the council can be quite generous and includes sheds, cubbies and cabanas. In residential zones, a structure can be up to 20m² , and in rural zones, up to 50m².

Checking with your local council is essential as each council has unique rules regarding shed construction. We always recommended that you discuss your proposed building work with your neighbours, regardless of whether you need approval or not.

For example Bellingen Council, New South Wales, needs Development Application (DA) for most structures (excluding garden shed council approval).

If your property is in a rural area or production zone, Nambucca Council, NSW lets you build a shed up to 100m² (floor area). You do not require council approval for this shed size. This allowance is particularly beneficial for those in rural areas who need a shed for farming or storage purposes.

In many areas, people call small buildings like garden sheds or carports “movable structures.” They may not need planning permission. Confirm with your council to determine if your shed qualifies for this exemption.

7 Step Shed Council Approval Process

Here’s the process we recommend to get council approval for building a shed with a minimum of hassle:

1. Preliminary Design

Get a basic shed design created. (We provide free preliminary drawings for you to send to the council). These drawings are ready for you to submit to your local council, helping you streamline the approval process without any additional costs.

2. Preliminary Discussion

When you are satisfied with your design, contact your local council. This will start a preliminary discussion. We can review your boundaries, sewer lines, and relevant precedents before talking with the council.

3. Preliminary Feedback

Once your preliminary drawings are submitted, the council may provide feedback highlighting adjustments needed for compliance. This feedback is essential and could range from minor tweaks to more significant changes, such as altering dimensions, setbacks, or materials.

4. Preliminary Refinements

Please make the needed changes to your early design. This service is free when you use our quote service.

5. Formal Application

Put your plans into council as part of a formal application. If you’ve done your homework, approval should generally be straightforward.

6. Final Refinements

If the council has more requests for changes, adjust your design and send it back to them.

However, if you follow steps 1 to 4, you should not have much to do here.

7. Approval

Once approved, you’re ready to order your building materials and start building your shed!
While the above is a general guide to the main approval process across NSW, each state and territory will have additional requirements.

Why choosing Roofing Matters is the best decision you’ll make

We do more than just a shed installation – we are your one-stop shop for planning, design & fit out.

We work with trusted partners. These include local concreters, earthworks, and our in-house electricians, plumbers, builders, and roofers. One of our partners is Jordan Burrows Electrical. This way, we make sure your shed is fully equipped and functional.

As a family-run business, we can handle every part of your shed’s construction. We save you time and reduce your stress.