Navigating the building approval process for dwelling alterations can be daunting, but understanding the required documentation and steps can help ensure a smoother experience. Here’s a concise guide to help you through the process:
Mandatory Documentation at Lodgement:
- Completed DA Application Form 2: Ensure all sections, including the email address, are filled out correctly.
- Portable Long Service Receipt: Required for works valued at $150,000 and above.
- QBCC Notifications:
- • For work over $3,300 by a QBCC licensee.
- • For owner builders on projects valued at $11,000 or more.
- Site Plan: One copy detailing lot dimensions, setbacks, existing structures, and utilities.
- Cross Sections: One copy showing framing sizes, floor and foundation details, and roof pitch.
- Elevations: One copy indicating the external appearance and materials used.
- Floor Plan: One copy per level showing the extent of work, wall thicknesses, and positions of openings.
- Bracing Calculations: Detailed schedule matching floor plan indications.
- Tie Down Schedules: Detailed table indicating connection types and values.
- Timber Framing Details: Schedules indicating member descriptions, spans, spacings, sizes, and stress grades.
- Engineer’s Design Certification: Required for steel structures.
- Soil Investigation Report: Necessary for foundation planning.
- Footing/Slab Design and Certification: One copy including Form 15.
- Energy Efficiency Assessment: One copy indicating compliance with sustainability codes.
- Truss Design Certification: One copy including layout and manufacturer’s certification.
- Retaining Wall Details: One copy with engineer’s design and Form 15 certification.
- Rainwater Tank Details: Specifications and certification for above-ground or underground tanks.
- Siting Discretion Application: Required if within 1.5m of boundaries or 6m of road boundaries.
General Requirements:
- Timber framed buildings should use AS1684 manuals for member details.
- Metal framed buildings need engineer design certification and supervision.
- Suspended concrete requires design details by a Registered Professional Engineer of Queensland.
Additional Considerations:
If altering natural land levels by 300mm or more, include cross sections showing earthwork details. For more information, contact CVL Engineers via phone or email. Our team is ready to assist you through every step of your building approval process.
Faqs
When is a Development Approval for Building Works required?
A development approval is required before carrying out most types of building work. The process involves assessment by a Building Certifier, issuing a Decision Notice, and conducting inspections to ensure compliance. Some minor building works may not require a building permit. Contact CVL Engineers by phone or email to determine if an approval is needed.
What is self-assessable development?
Self-assessable development includes minor building work that does not require a building approval but must comply with standards like the Building Code of Australia and Queensland Development Codes. Examples include small tool sheds, fences up to 2m, and certain retaining walls.
What is exempt development?
Exempt development does not require a building approval. It includes minor structures such as sunhoods, small playground equipment, and tents under 100m². Compliance with applicable standards is still required.
When do I need a building approval for a retaining wall?
Approval is required if the wall is over 1m in height, within 1.5m of a building, or has a load imposed above it. Other approvals may also be required for compliance with the planning scheme.
What is a Building Certifier?
A Building Certifier assesses building applications to ensure compliance with relevant laws. They also conduct inspections at various stages of construction.
