Garage and Carport Permit Requirements Guide in Victoria

If you are planning to build a garage or carport in Victoria, it is important to understand the building permit and planning permit requirements before construction begins. Whether approval is required depends on the size, height, location, and design of the proposed structure, as well as the applicable Victorian Building Regulations and local council planning controls.

This guide explains when a garage or carport requires a permit in Victoria, what approvals may be needed, and how the application process works.

In most cases, a building permit is required to construct a garage or carport in Victoria unless the structure qualifies for a specific exemption under the Victorian Building Regulations.

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.

• Has a floor area greater than 10 square metres; OR
  
• Exceeds 3.0 metres in height, or 2.4 metres in height when located within 1 metre of a boundary; OR
  
• Is attached to a dwelling or another building; OR
  
• If it is on the same allotment as a building of another class (eg a dwelling) and is located further forward than the front wall of that building; OR
  
• If it is constructed of masonry.

If any of the above apply, a registered building surveyor must issue a building permit before works commence.

In limited circumstances, a garage or carport may not require a building permit if it meets all relevant exemption criteria.

A building permit may not be required where the structure:

• Is 10m² or less in floor area; AND
• Complies with all height and setback requirements; AND
• Is not attached to another building; AND
• Is not constructed of masonry
  
  

Because exemptions are strictly interpreted, it is strongly recommended that homeowners confirm permit requirements with a registered building surveyor before starting construction.

In addition to a building permit, some garages and carports require a planning permit from the local council.

A planning permit may be required where:



• The property is affected by planning overlays (such as heritage, environmental, or neighbourhood character overlays)
• The development triggers local planning scheme controls
  
  

Planning requirements vary between councils, so it is essential to check with your local council’s planning department before lodging a building permit application.

When constructing a garage or carport, you must also consider builder registration and cost thresholds.

• If the total cost of works exceeds $16,000 and you are acting as an owner builder, you must obtain an Owner Builder Certificate of Consent from the Victorian Building Authority (VBA).
• For works valued over $10,000, a major domestic building contract must be entered into if engaging a registered building practitioner.
• All regulated plumbing work must be completed by a registered or licensed plumbing practitioner.
  
  

Failure to comply with these requirements can result in delays or enforcement action.

Obtaining a garage or carport building permit is generally straightforward when all required documentation is provided.

Contact your local council to confirm whether a planning permit is required before applying for a building permit.

A typical garage or carport permit application includes:

• Current title documents
• A site plan showing the location of the proposed structure
• Construction details including materials, dimensions, and design
• Structural engineering details, where required

Submit your application to a registered building surveyor along with the applicable fees.

The application will be reviewed for compliance with the Victorian Building Regulations. If further information is required, you will be notified. Once approved, construction may commence in accordance with the permit conditions.

Code HQ provides professional building surveying services across Victoria, assisting homeowners and builders with garage and carport approvals from start to finish. Our team of experienced building surveyors can help ensure your project complies with all relevant regulations and approval requirements.

In addition to garage and carport permits, Code HQ also provides:

• Building permits and approvals
  
• Pool barrier compliance and advice
  
• Illegal building works report
  
• Maximum Patron Capacity reports for liquor licence applications