If your proposed building work in Queensland doesn’t comply with the Queensland Development Code (QDC) or your local councils planning scheme you may need a siting application, also known as a concurrence application or referral application. These applications can be complicated and Buildable Approvals can make these applications or – more importantly – advise on how to avoid them.
The below article is a guide to explain when you might need a siting application, what types of concurrence application exists and the steps to making the referral.
What Is a Siting Application In Queensland?
A siting application is a request for council to assess building works that does not meet the siting standard such as:
- Setbacks
- Building Height
- Site Cover
- Boundary Clearances
- Building Envelope Requirements
This process is required before a building approval can be issued.
When Do You Need A Concurrence (Design And Siting) Referral?
You may need to refer your building work to the local authority when:
- The proposal does not comply with QDC MP1.1, MP1.2, MP 1.3 or MP 3.5
- Your design doesn’t meet the local planning scheme siting rules
- The property is subject to overlays or specific building envelope controls
- You are proposing an alternative solution to acceptable outcomes
- Your building work affects council assets or plumbing systems
If you are unsure, Buildable Approvals can review your plans and confirm which referrals apply as part of the building approval process.
Types of Concurrence Applications in Queensland
Local Councils act as concurrence agencies for several categories of building work. The most common are:
- Design and Siting Concurrence Referral, required when your building doesn’t meet:
- QDC siting standards (front, side a rear setbacks – download our setback guides)
- Height limits or site cover requirements
- Planning scheme requirements or neighbourhood plan controls
- Build Over or Near Council Assets, to assess structural risk and asset protection
- Sewer mains
- Stormwater mains
- Water supply infrastructure
- Local Authority Plumbing Applications, ensures compliance with plumbing standards and environmental requirements
- Sewered sites – plumbing fixture changes, additions or upgrades
- Non-sewered sites – on-site waster water systems and treatment units
Step-By-Step: How the Siting Application Process Works
- Check QDC and Planning Scheme Compliance
- Our Building Certifier will review your plans against the QDC, local planning scheme and applicable overlays and neighbourhood plans. Any non-compliance will trigger the need for a referral.
- Prepare Required Siting Documentation
- Our Certifier will put together a detailed application package that includes the assessment against QDC and local planning, a marked up siteplan, floorplans as well as a detailed justification for the application.
- Lodging the Referral to Council
- We submit the application through the local authorities referral scheme and will advise of the time taken
- Council Assessment
- Council review the application and either approve, approve with conditions, request further information or suggest the amendments required to get a positive outsome
- Building Approval Issued
- Once council approval is issued our building Certifier can issue the building approval and you can begin construction (subject to any conditions set up council or us).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need a siting application to build over a sewer? Yes, this typically triggers a build over sewer concurrence referral.
Can a private building certifier lodge the siting application for me? Yes, Buildable Approvals will manage the entire process for you.
How long does a siting application take? Council timeframes vary, usually 10-20 business days but some can be up to 3 months. We recommend you start the building approval off as soon as you have initial plans.
What documents do I need to provide? At a minimum: a site plan, elevation plan, floor plan and clear information of what you are trying to build/achieve (ie don’t say you want to build a shed if you really want a granny flat).
Do all non-compliant designs need council approval? Yes, Building Certifiers can provide approval on QDC compliant designs anything non compliant will require a referral.
How Buildable Approvals Can Help
We offer a complete range of facilitated services including
- Concurrence Referrals, Design and Siting
- Build Over/Near Asset Applications (sewer, stormwater, water mains)
- Local Authority Plumbing Applications
We will manage the entire process for you, ensuring a smoother approval process and fewer delays.
Just send through your plans to us and we can provide guidance as to what is required.
Disclaimer:
The information in this document is provided as a guide only and is of a general nature. Specific advice will vary depending on the individual construction circumstances. It may be necessary to check with relevant qualified persons when interpreting these requirements, or engage Buildable Approvals for a full assessment.