Many people assume that shade sails don’t require council approval, however, this isn’t always the case. If you’re thinking about installing a shade sail, more often than not, your main focus will be on getting the design, colour, and fabric just right. However, you must remember to consider the council approvals and planning permission that may be required to transform the front or backyard of your property. Keep in mind, depending on where you live, the rules and regulations may vary from state to state. The necessity for Council approval for your shad sail will depend on a range of factors so here’s some useful information to help ensure you comply. You should also contact your local council to determine applicable requirements before purchasing your shade sail.
Shade sails exempt from council approval
When it comes to council approval for the installation of shade sails in Victoria, there are a few exemptions to the rules. If you can adhere to the below guidelines, you just might save yourself a whole lot of hassle:
- The area of the sail needs to be no more than 20 square meters
- The shade sail material needs to allow for air and water to pass through
- The shade sail must not be more than 3 meters above floor level or the ground
However, these exemptions will depend on where you live and your local building laws as not all rules are Victoria-wide.
Do waterproof shade sails need council approval?
Quite often, waterproof shade sails will require approval from your council. Choosing the right shade sail that matches the environment it is in can make it easier to get approval and for your application to make it through the planning process.
Due to an increasing number of applications, you may find some councils have adopted a transparent process to deal with shade sail structures. However, you may find some councils require a building permit regardless of the situation, whereas others have very flexible rules. It really does pay to do your homework before you begin construction of your new shade sails.
Shade sails approval on a heritage listed site
If the property you own or wish to modify with shade sails is a heritage-listed site or conservation zone, the rules change again. As with any other modifications to be made to these types of sites, you must remember to consult with the relevant authorities before any construction of shade sails commences. Regardless of whether you will attach the shade sails to the building, or intend to leave them free-standing, heritage restrictions may deem your proposed shade sails will change the external appearance of the building. This may lead to a rejection of your shade sails proposal.
Ready to bring in the trained professionals in shade sails?
Drop in and chat through your shade sail design ideas with the experienced team at Gazebo and Shade Centre. Located in Mildura, Victoria, they may be able to guide you on your council approval inquiry. Check out their range of solutions online. Or request an obligation-free quote on your new custom shade sails today.