Portable buildings are temporary or semi-permanent structures that are easily transported, assembled, and dismantled. Generally, these buildings are versatile, enabling them to serve various purposes, from additional workspace and storage to assembly areas and event spaces. Fabric shelters like Allshelter’s are classed as moveable dwellings due to their relocatable nature. Whilst such structures generally don’t require council approval, understanding whether you need approval must be considered before erecting the structure.
General Council Regulations
Local council regulations can differ, resulting in different regulations for portable buildings across regions. Generally, these regulations are designed to ensure that any construction aligns with safety standards, zoning laws, and environmental planning policies.
Although council approval is generally not required for portable buildings, permanent structures such as steel sheds and brick buildings must meet the required building codes and environmental standards. This approval process helps maintain the safety and integrity of structures within the community, protecting both residents and the environment. Even though Allshelter’s fabric shelters don’t often need approval, our shelters are designed and engineered to Australian Standards, ensuring the structure’s safety.
Specific Requirements by Region
The requirements for council approval differ by region. Below is an overview of the regulations for portable buildings in various parts of Australia:
New South Wales (NSW)
Whilst fabric shelters don’t usually require a development application (DA) or a complying development certificate (CDC) in NSW, some portable structures may. Developments with little impact may be classed as ‘exempt developments, ‘ meaning they do not need approval.
Victoria
Victoria’s regulations vary, with some structures requiring a building permit while others don’t, ensuring compliance with the state’s building code and safety standards.
Queensland
In Queensland, depending on the size and intended use of the portable building, the approval process may include a development application to the local council. Some structures might be exempt under specific conditions.
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
The ACT requires building approval for most portable structures, following stringent guidelines to ensure environmental and structural safety.
Northern Territory
In the Northern Territory, portable buildings often require a construction certificate. The approval process ensures that the building complies with local planning and safety regulations.
Western Australia
Western Australia’s regulations mandate that portable buildings comply with the state’s building codes. A building permit might be required depending on the building’s size and purpose.
What Portable Buildings Require/ Don’t Require Council Approval?
There is a wide range of structures that can fall under portable buildings, whether it is a tiny home, modular buildings, shipping container conversions, or fabric shelters. Permits are required when services such as water and electricity are needed, but this often differs with container domes and shelters. Fabric dome shelters are usually exempt from approval due to their temporary nature and compliance with specific size and use conditions. If you are unsure, we suggest checking with your local council to confirm this.
Tips to Submitting an Application to Your Local Council
If you need, we have provided some tips for applying to your local council.
- Research Local Regulations: Before applying, research the specific requirements of your local council. This includes understanding the local building code and any relevant sections of the Local Government Act.
- Contact Your Local Council: To ensure you know what is required, you can contact your local council to see their requirements and what’s involved in applying for a Development Application (DA) and Section 68 (S.68) Activity Approval to install a portable building.
- Advise Council or Manufactured, Portable Building: If you apply to your Local Council, ensure they know you are installing a manufactured, portable building. Be clear in stating that it is manufactured off-site at a factory, then delivered and installed at your site once complete.and installed at your site location once complete.
- Structural Engineering: Under the BCA, all metal structures erected in Australia must have a Structural Design Compliance Certificate from a Certified Engineer to certify that the structure complies with the BCA and all relevant Australian Standards.
- Section 68 (S.68) Activity Approval: Portable buildings are ‘manufactured buildings’ that are manufactured off-site at our factory. Therefore, they fall under ‘Section 68 (S.68) of the Local Government Act, ‘installation of a manufactured home, movable dwelling or associated structure on land’. You only require a Development Application (DA) and a Section 68 (S.68) Activity Approval from the Local Council to proceed.
- Council Application Process: The application process varies between different Local Councils. Some require you to submit your Development Application (DA), Design Certificate and Engineering Drawings first. Then, once approved, they require you to complete a Section 68 (S.68) application. Other local councils will allow you to apply for a Development Application (DA) and Section 68 (S.68) Activity Approval together.
Conclusion
Portable buildings such as fabric dome shelters offer a flexible, cost-effective, and versatile solution for a wide range of space needs. Their ease of transport, assembly, and customisation makes them a popular choice for those within various industries. Understanding the local regulations and choosing the right type of portable building for your needs will ensure a successful implementation.
