Garage and Carport Permit Requirements Guide in Victoria

One of the most common questions asked is whether you need a building permit for building a garage or carport. The answer depends on the size and location of your garage or carport. Generally, a permit is required if the garage or carport is larger than 10m² in area, more than 3m in height (or 2.4m in height where closer than 1m to a boundary), or attached to another building or structure.

Are you planning on building a garage or carport in Victoria, but unsure about the necessary permits and regulations? The good news is that garages or carports are one of the most common structures the team here at CODEHQ issue Building Permits for, so you’re in good hands. However, it is still important to understand the regulations and requirements for building a garage or carport in Victoria.

There are other things to note when constructing a garage or carport. You will need to decide whether you are undertaking the works as an owner builder, or if you wish to use a registered builder to carry out the works. Works as an owner builder exceeding $16,000 requires the owner to obtain an Owner Builder certificate from the Victorian Building Authority (VBA). Contact the VBA for more information on this process.

For work costing over $10,000, a major domestic building contract must be entered in to with the registered building practitioner. Any installation of flashings, roof sheeting, guttering, and other regulated plumbing work on a garage or carport must be done through a registered or licensed plumbing practitioner.

The process of obtaining a garage or carport permit from CODE HQ is generally straight-forward, provided all required documents are provided with the application. However, it is necessary to ensure that your garage or carport complies with all regulations therefore it can get complicated where secondary approvals are required from Council or relevant water authorities. Here are the steps to follow when applying for a garage or carport permit:

Each council can have its own Planning triggers regarding garage or carports, so it is important to check with your local council about any specific local requirements before applying for a permit. You can find this information on your council's website or by contacting them directly

Refer to our garage or carport application checklist for more detailed description, however generally your permit application must include the following:



• Title documents
• A site plan showing the location of the proposed garage or carport
• A detailed description of the garage or carport, including materials, height, and design
• Structural details. It may be necessary to engage an engineer in certain circumstances

Once you have completed your application, submit it to CODE HQ with the required fee.

One of our technical team will review your application and notify you of their decision. If your application is approved, you can proceed with building your garage or carport. If we require further information from you we will write to you detailing exactly what we need to further assess your application.

If you're planning to build a garage or carport in Victoria, it's important to choose a professional building surveyor who can provide expert advice and guidance throughout the process. Code HQ is a leading provider of building surveying services in Victoria, with a team of experienced and qualified building surveyors and inspectors who can assist with all aspects of the building process, from obtaining building permits to carrying out inspections and issuing Occupancy Permits and Certificates of Final Inspection.

Code HQ also offers a range of other services, including:
   •   Building permits and approvals
   •   Building inspections and audits
   •   Pool Barrier compliance and advice
   •   Essential Safety Measures, Fire Maintenance & Inspections
   •   Maximum Patron Capacity Reports for your Liquor License application