Understanding Building Code For Carports
Our carport builders in Sydney need to follow building regulations which vary from state to state and even council to council. As the homeowner, you’ll be required to obtain all the necessary approvals before we can get started. However, there are a few questions you can ask to make sure you get all the information you need.
Start with your local council website.
Just because you heard from a friend that they’ve recently built a carport and you both live in Sydney doesn’t necessarily mean that the same council rules apply to you. So, the best place to start is by reading about carport regulations on your local council website. Since carports are common, most will have fact sheets that you can refer to.
Common Questions About Building Carports in Sydney
Do I need a permit for a carport in NSW?
It depends. If your future carport meets the building code for your area, you won’t need a permit to build a carport on your property. However, if your property is heritage listed or in a foreshore area, carport installation in NSW will require a permit for construction. In most cases, you’ll also need to ensure your carport provides bushfire resistance.
When is a carport not allowed in NSW?
In NSW, a carport cannot be built if the property is less than eight metres wide with no vehicle access from a secondary road. In other words, if your property has an unusual shape or is rather small, you’ll want to triple check the regulations to figure out whether a carport is permissible.
How many carports are allowed in NSW?
Only one carport is allowed per residential dwelling in NSW — a carport being a Class 10a building that’s a structure primarily used to house a vehicle that is open on at least two sides and one-third of the vehicle’s perimeter.
Are there limitations on where I can build a carport in NSW?
Yes. You’ll need to check with your local council to understand the frontage setback requirements which determines how far back from the footpath your carport needs to be built. Additionally, NSW requires that your carport must be positioned in such a way that rainwater runoff runs into an existing stormwater drainage system.