Shed council approval in QLD — when you need it and what to draw
Updated 2026-07-20 · RapidSiteplan
Shed approval in Queensland confuses everyone, because the answer is “it depends on size, height and where you put it.” Plain-English version:
When a shed may be exempt
Very small structures (commonly up to 10m² floor area, within height limits, behind the building line) can qualify as “accepted development” needing no building approval in many QLD council areas. The catches: boundary clearances still apply, easements are never buildable, and estate covenants can be stricter than council.
When you need building approval
Over the size/height thresholds, a private certifier assesses it as building work — and the first document on their checklist is the site plan: shed size, position, setbacks to each boundary, site coverage, and what else is on the lot.
What to draw either way
Even for an exempt shed, draw the site plan before you order the slab. It proves the clearances, catches easements and coverage problems early, and if a neighbour or council ever asks questions you have the document. Ten minutes of drawing beats moving a shed.
RapidSiteplan loads your lot with its easements flagged, places the shed to true scale and prints the setbacks automatically — check first, pour concrete second.
Generate my site plan →General information only, not building or legal advice — requirements vary by council and change over time; always confirm with your council or certifier.