All Construction Approvals - Head Office

When don't I need a building approval for a retaining wall?

(Building Regulation 2006 Schedule 1 & Building Act Section 21) Building approval is not required, for a retaining wall if There is no surcharge loading over the zone of influence for the wall; and The total height of the wall and of the fill or cut retained by the wall is no more than 1m above the wall's natural ground surface; and The wall is no closer than 1.5m to a building or another retaining wall.

Can I build closer than the required boundary setbacks?

A Relaxation Application (Siting Variation) will be required for any building work that is located within boundary setbacks that are nominated by law under Building Regulation 2006 and Local Planning Schemes. All Construction Approvals, upon initial assessment of your plans will inform you if a Relaxation (Siting Variation) will be required.

I’m doing some alterations / extensions at home; do I need a Building Plan approval?

Any structural building work including – carports, pergolas, decks, verandas, alterations / extensions, garden sheds and retaining walls higher than 1m require a Building Approval.

What is energy efficiency?

Energy efficiency assessments are a legislative requirement with the objective to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by efficiently using energy. These assessments are applicable for new dwellings, class 2 - 9 buildings and alterations/additions (habitable areas) to existing dwellings. When the plans have been assessed for energy efficiency, a report is produced with an energy efficiency rating. This report will become part of the approved plan documentation.

What distance from my front boundary alignment do I have to come back to build a structure?

Generally, a 'minimum front boundary clearance' of 6m is required, but a reduced distance may be allowed in special circumstances such as open carports or when the local authority has stipulated special boundary setbacks.

What distance from my front boundary alignment do I have to come back to build a structure?

Generally, a ‘minimum front boundary clearance’ of 6m is required, but a reduced distance may be allowed in special circumstances such as open carports or when the local authority has stipulated special boundary setbacks.

What is QBCC Insurance? - www.bsa.qld.gov.au

QBCC insurance is paid to the Queensland Building & Construction Commission, by the builder when undertaking work exceeding a value of $3300. The "Confirmation of Insurance" document needs to be forwarded to your certifier to release plans. The insurance is paid on residential work including unit developments up to a certain number of storeys.

How long does a building approval last?

The building work must be completed, inspected and finalised within two years of the date issue on the Decision Notice document, unless noted otherwise. (Demolitions to be commenced within 2 months and to be completed within 6 months from date of approval).

Can I come to your office and speak to a certifier?

Yes, All Construction Approvals offers an in-house advisory service to help you with any questions you may have. Appointments can be made by contacting our office at any time (a fee is applicable for this service).

Can you provide me with a quote?

Yes, simply contact our office on (07) 4054 4588, email your plans to [email protected] or post your plans to PO Box 331, Edmonton, QLD 4860 and we will reply to your request in approximately 2-3 working days. (Subject to work load constraints)

Can I change my plans after they have been approved?

Yes, you can alter your Approved Plans, however it will depend on the nature of the alteration. Amending plans requires a Request to Change Form to be completed and returned to All Construction Approvals. A copy of the Request to Change Form can be downloaded from this website and an additional fee for Amending Plans will be applicable (a fee is applicable for this service).

Do I require any inspections during the construction of my building project?

Yes, your Decision Notice attached to your Approved Plans, will advise of what inspections are required. The builder and or Owner builder must contact All Construction Approvals (07 4054 4588) before 2pm the day prior to the inspection to ensure the booking is made in sufficient time for the inspection to be carried out on the requested day.