Do I Need a Building Permit for a Shed in Victoria?
Building a shed in Victoria? You might not need a permit – but there are strict rules. This guide provides information about council permit approval, setback requirements, and how to stay compliant with Victorian building regulations.
⚠️ Disclaimer: This guide is for general information only. Victorian regulations change from time to time, therefore always check with your local council or a building surveyor before starting construction. Building regulations vary by council and property type.
When You DON'T Need a Permit (Class 10a Buildings)
In many instances, you do not need a permit to build a Class 10a shed or garage if it meets ALL of the following conditions:
- Floor area: Less than 10m² (this is 3m × 3.33m, or 2.5m × 4m, or 2m × 5m, or smaller)
- Height: The overall height is 2.4m or under when setback is 200mm, or 3.0m or under when setback is 1000mm
- Setbacks: Complies with minimum boundary setback requirements (see table below)
- Not attached: The shed is not attached to your house
- Single storey: Total floor area of 10m² includes all levels – no mezzanine or second level
If your shed meets these criteria, you can build it without a permit. However, you still need to comply with setback rules and building standards. If you're in a bushfire-prone area or heritage overlay, carefully check your compliance requirements.
When You DO Need a Permit
You'll need a building permit if your shed:
- Is larger than 10m² (most garages and farm sheds)
- Is taller than the overall height of 2.4m at 200mm setback or 3.0m at 1000mm setback
- Does not meet the minimum boundary setback requirements
- Is attached to your house (e.g., carport or verandah)
- Is in a bushfire-prone area or heritage overlay – carefully check your compliance
Most garages require a permit. A standard 6m × 6m double garage is 36m², which is well over the 10m² threshold.
Setback Requirements in Victoria
Even if you don't need a permit, you must comply with setback rules. These vary by council, but the general guidelines are:
| Boundary | Minimum Setback |
|---|---|
| Front boundary (street) | Behind the front building line (usually 6-9m) |
| Side boundaries | 1m minimum (some councils allow 200mm) |
| Rear boundary | 200mm or 1000mm (varies by council) |
💡 Pro Tip: If you want to build closer to a boundary than the minimum setback, you will likely need a building permit as well as a planning permit. Note: Planning permits are handled by your local council's planning department. Make sure you check with them as well as the building department.
Engineering Certification and Shed City's Advantage
Certified engineering is required for building permits to ensure your shed is designed to Australian standards (AS/NZS 1170). This means it's designed to handle wind loads, snow loads (in alpine areas), and structural loads.
At Shed City, all pre-punched main and secondary frame sheds – even for sheds under 10m² – are engineered with added strength in every Shed City designed shed. This means:
- Superior structural integrity compared to standard sheds
- Full engineering documentation ready for building permit applications
- Peace of mind for insurance claims and resale value
Bushfire Zones and Heritage Overlays
If your property is in a bushfire-prone area or heritage overlay, additional requirements may apply. We recommend checking with your council for specific compliance requirements.
Shed City designed sheds meet all these requirements if required by your council. Our team can help you navigate these special conditions and ensure your shed is compliant.
How to Apply for a Building Permit
If you need a permit, here's the process:
- Get engineering plans: Your shed supplier (like Shed City) provides these.
- Engage a building surveyor: They'll assess your plans and issue the permit.
- Submit to council: The surveyor lodges the application with your local council.
- Pay fees: Permit fees vary by council (typically $800-$1,800 for a garage).
- Wait for approval: Usually 10-20 business days.
- Build and inspect: Once approved, you can build. The surveyor will inspect at key stages.
✅ Pro Tip: When you purchase from Shed City, we assist you through permit processes (building and in most cases planning) and in many cases can do a pre-assessment prior to ordering.
What Happens If You Build Without a Permit?
Building without a permit that does not meet the Victorian building regulations can result in:
- Fines: Up to $10,000+ for non-compliance
- Demolition orders: Council can force you to remove the shed
- Insurance issues: Your insurer may refuse claims for unapproved structures
- Resale problems: Buyers will discover the issue during conveyancing
Don't risk it. If you're unsure, check with your council or a building surveyor before you build.
Quick Checklist: Do I Need a Permit?
| Question | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|
| Is your shed larger than 10m²? | Permit needed | |
| Is it taller than 2.4m at 200mm setback or 3.0m at 1000mm setback? | Permit needed | |
| Does it not meet minimum setback requirements? | Permit needed | |
| Is it in a bushfire zone or heritage overlay? | Check compliance | |
| Is it attached to your house? | Permit needed | |
| All answers are "No" and compliance is met? | No permit needed | |
| Confirm with your local authority OR ask for assistance from your Shed City team member | ||
Need Help with Permits? We've Got You Covered
Shed City provides full engineering documentation with every shed, and we can guide you through the permit process. Contact us for advice specific to your property and council.
