Site plans for patio & carport approval in Queensland
Updated 2026-07-20 · RapidSiteplan
Patios and carports are the most common backyard applications in Queensland — and the site plan is the document the certifier reads first. Here is what they look for.
The four things certifiers check
- Boundary setbacks — the distance from the new patio or carport to each boundary, measured square-on. Small lots often rely on the QDC’s reduced side setbacks; the figures must be on the plan.
- Site coverage — many QLD planning schemes cap total roofed coverage around 50%. Your plan should show coverage before and after the build.
- Attachment — is it attached to the dwelling or freestanding? The plan should make it obvious, drawn flush against the house wall if attached.
- Stormwater — where the new roof water goes. A note like “stormwater connected to existing system” with an arrow is standard practice.
Common mistakes that stall approval
Setbacks measured to the wrong point (post centre vs roof edge), missing dimensions on one side, no north arrow, coverage not stated, and drawings not to scale. Each one is an easy request-for-information letter — and a week or three of waiting.
RapidSiteplan draws the patio to true scale against the real house outline, calculates setbacks and coverage live, and prints the whole sheet in the format certifiers expect.
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.