Sheds, Garages and Workshops

The majority of standalone sheds, garages, workshops require building approval before they are installed, placed or constructed on a property.  

Location of structures in proximity to effluent systems and easements could affect the location of patios, sheds and the like.

Exemption from requiring a building approval

  • Sheds less than 10m2 and no greater than 2.4m in height (typically a 3m by 3m garden shed)

What documents do I need for my Building Permit Application?

  • Completed application form, either a BA1 or BA2 with all owners noted and builders section completed and signed
  • Applicable fees (please see fee schedule)
  • Certificate of Design Compliance (only required if submitting a BA1 – Certified Building Application)
  • Site plan at a minimum scale of 1:200 showing:
    • Setbacks from the lot boundaries and all other buildings on the property, and
    • Dimensions of the proposed structure, and
    • Location and sizes of soak wells or rainwater tanks
    • Location of easements and distance to the proposed structure
    • Distance from effluent tanks, leach drains and related systems (where applicable)
  • Floor plan at a minimum scale of 1:100 showing:
    • Dimensions of walls, rooms, windows and doors of proposed works.
  • Elevations at a minimum scale of 1:100 showing:
    • Wall heights and materials
    • Locations and dimensions of windows and doors
  • Engineering details signed by a structural engineer showing:
    • Footing and slab details
    • Construction details
    • Tie-down details or anchors
  • Second-hand structures will require a recent structural engineering endorsement for the proposed site.
  • If the shed or garage is within 6m of a dwelling it may require a Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) assessment if your property is located in a designated bushfire prone area.
  • Check the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) Bushfire prone areas map to see if your property is located in a bushfire prone area.
  • Existing BAL reports used for the original dwelling can be re-used for a shed application, only if the report is less than 2 years old and doesn't have an expiry date noted.
  • Depending on the result of the BAL assessment there may be additional construction requirements to reduce the risk of ignition due to bushfires.

Will any other approvals be required before a building permit can be issued?

Fun Fact: Did you know 80-90% of Building Permits applied for are put on hold because of little or no consideration for the Shire’s planning and health requirements at the design stage? 

It is important to speak to our planning and health teams about your project before finalising and submitting your building application.  This will ensure a smoother and more efficient building approval process and avoid unnecessary and lengthy delays.

Please note that this list is not exhaustive and further information may be requested prior to building approval being granted.

For further information, please contact Building Services on 9526 1111 or by email at info@sjshire.wa.gov.au