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A pergola is a grand addition to your property as it creates extra space for relaxation or entertainment. Adding this type of structure to your property also makes your home more beautiful and increases its overall value.
The rules guiding the addition of this type of structure to a property vary from place to place because different councils usually have various building regulations. Therefore, the best thing is to consult with your local council to determine the type of council approval you need.
Before you add any new construction to an existing property, it's best to ensure that you get approval from your local council. You'll also be able to determine whether approval is required because there are cases where you won't need permission for the project.
This depends on the council's rules and the project itself. This is the best thing to do so that you don't become a victim of any penalties. Read on to learn more!
Is Council Approval Needed for a Pergola?
As mentioned earlier, the requirements usually vary from council to council. However, the main factor determining whether you need council approval is the pergola's dimensions. The process of deciding whether you need council approval or not can be done when you apply for building permits.
This is a crucial step to complete before you start any construction so that you can meet all standards and requirements that apply where you live. Here's a quick overview of some cases where you'll need council approval for your pergola:
- If the pergola is to be attached to your home.
- If the floor level is between 60 to 100 cm above the ground level.
- If the pergola has a roof.
- If the pergola has a wall of 1.4m or higher.
- If the pergola is 25 sqm or more.
- If it takes at least 15% of the total ground area in your home.
- If it is 90cm from your neighbour's property.
- If the floor requires a railing.
The location of your home is also a factor that will determine whether you need to contact your local council. For example, if you live in an area prone to bushfires or under heritage conservation, you may need to contact your local council.
As mentioned earlier, these rules are not the same for every council. The best way to avoid problems is to contact your council when planning and building a new structure.
What Permit is Needed for a Pergola?
There are two types of permits: a building permit and a planning permit. The difference is that planning permits usually require compliance with design and boundary concerns standards. On the other hand, building permits focus on the actual safety of the property and other construction details.
Contacting your council is the best way to get clarifications on the matter. To avoid breaking any rules and building your pergola without worrying about fines, it's best to take cautious steps when planning and building a pergola.
The critical thing to note is that you can quickly get a planning permit from your local council, but to get a building permit; you'll need to contact a registered and licensed building surveyor.
Constructing a Pergola Without Council Approval
Because pergolas are generally regarded as home improvement, you'll need to get council approval in most cases before you can perform the work. The only exception is if the pergola is less than 25 sqm.
People usually confuse a veranda for a pergola, so knowing their differences is essential. Verandas are also known as balconies, and it's basically an open-air structure that is fully roofed, and in most cases, it is an extension of the property.
On the other hand, pergolas are an outdoor garden structure that creates a shaded patio or path. They are usually made from pillars that stand on both sides, with a cross beam in-between.
Another structure to know is the carport, a roofed, opened, or semi-enclosed structure designed to provide shelter for vehicles. Before starting the project, you need to know the technical differences between these structures and whether each requires a permit from your council.
Other Pre-Build Pergola Considerations
In addition to council approval, there are other important things to consider before you build a pergola, and they include the following:
The builder you hire
People usually ask whether they can hire an unregistered builder for the project. The exciting thing about pergolas is that you don't need a registered builder for the project. This is surprising, considering everything mentioned above.
You can easily organise the pergola development on your own as an owner-builder. However, you'll need to get an Owner Builder Permit for this. A key thing to have in mind is that when you hire the services of a pergola building specialist, the entire process can be completely smooth and without stress compared to when you do it yourself.
This is because the specialist is experienced and versed in managing different building requirements and regulations. Another advantage of having a professional do the job is that it provides more ease and safety, ultimately saving you more money in the long run.
Laws of your local government
In most cases, pergolas are usually considered exempt development, and you may not need permission from your local councils. However, other laws and legislation can restrict a pergola's construction or development applications, and it's essential to identify these restrictions.
An example of this is adjoining property rights, for which you can only construct a pergola if it doesn't interfere with the other properties in your neighbourhood. There are many other areas where your neighbours also have a say, including infringement of boundary, lighting, and noise.
If you plan to build a pergola, you'll need to collaborate with your neighbours and get their permission to continue the project and ensure everyone is on the same page.
Electricity and your pergola
People usually include variations to the design of their pergola, and examples of these variations include motorised features and lighting. Regardless of the type of modification you want to add, it's vital to ensure that it complies with the laid down requirements.
For example, for the addition of electrical equipment, you need to ensure that it complies with electrical safety regulations. For this, you also need to hire the service of a qualified electrician to handle the hardwiring. The best time to hire an electrician is when the pergola frame is erected. This ensures that the builder and the electrician collaborate to keep everything on track.
Thinking About Building a Pergola?
Are you still wondering whether you should build a pergola or not? Here's a quick overview of some of the benefits of a pergola:
- Increases your living space: One of the most notable benefits of a pergola is that it will create more space on your property for socialising, relaxing, and reading. You'll basically get more design in your empty backyard space.
- Increases the value of your home: If you plan to sell your property in future, an easy way to increase its value is by adding a pergola.
- Protects outdoor living space: Converting your pergola into a patio cover will protect it from sun, rain, and other elements. For this, you can opt for a pergola style that allows for the addition of extra coverage.
- Solar power: You can install solar photovoltaic (PV) panels on the pergola, which saves the stress of climbing the building's roof to install the panels.
Use Pergola Experts to Safeguard Your Investment
Building a pergola is a valuable addition to your home, providing extra space for different outdoor activities. However, it's important to note the differences in council approvals and to manoeuvre this step; you might want to consider hiring a professional who can provide the best advice you need for the project to run smoothly.
