Building & renovating
If you are considering a building or development project, you will likely need approval. Development is a broad term that covers the following activities:
Building works - structural projects including building a new home, home extensions or alterations, garages and carports, sheds, fences and retaining walls, swimming pools, driveways and crossovers. These works generally require building approval (certification) from a private certifier. Read the topics below for more information.
Material Change of Use - changing the way a property is used, re-establishing a use, or intensifying the scale of an existing use on a property requires a Development Application (DA). Visit our Development page for more information.
Operational Works - activities that alter the shape or form of land including civil works, earthworks, vegetation clearing and road works require a Development Application (DA). Visit our Development page for more information.
Reconfiguring a Lot - subdivision, amalgamation of lots, boundary realignments and access easements require a Development Application (DA). Visit our Development page for more information.
Building Flood Resilience
The Building for Flood Resilience guide is designed to assist you in making informed decisions for better flood resilience as you rebuild, retrofit, or design a new home or business.
Building certification (building permit)
Most building works and structural projects need building certification (also known as a building permit) from a private certifier.
Driveways & crossovers
Approvals, technical standards and recommended materials for driveways and crossovers.
Easements & covenants
Easements and covenants come with conditions that can affect what you may build and what approvals are required.
Erosion & sediment control
Information on managing building activity to prevent pollution and erosion, and to protect our environment
FNQROC Development Manual v9 2023
The FNQROC Development Manual provides a comprehensive set of guidelines and specifications for carrying out various civil engineering works within Far North Queensland local government areas.
Fences & landscaping
Information about boundary and dividing fences, the Neighbourhood Disputes Resolution Act and mandatory pool fencing requirements.
Garages, carports & sheds
A carport, garage or shed requires building certification (approval) before construction begins - even for DIY kit type structures.
Siting dispensation (Referral Agency assessment)
Council acts as a referral agency for building works that involve variations to site coverage, building heights and design under the Queensland Development Code and CairnsPlan 2016.
Swimming pools & spas
All new swimming pools and spas require building approval from Council. You must also register your pool or spa with the Queensland Government. Pool safety certificates are required when selling or leasing a property with a pool.
Last Updated: 7 May 2024
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