Information Sheet - Patios and Carports - Building Code Requirements

Oct 28, 2026

Upload by Jake

Building information sheet outlining patio and carport definitions and the regulatory requirements for constructing them in Western Australia. Covers compliance with the Building Code of Australia (BCA) including fire separation at the boundary for one-third open conditions, and when a building permit is required or exempt under Building Regulations 2012. Summarizes R-CODE variation needs and key setbacks, open space, and height limits, then lists building permit application documents and contact details for the Shire of Collie.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryResearch & Report

FormatPDF

Pages5

Reading Time13 min

AccessFree to download

Overview

Patio and carport definition

Building Code of Australia (BCA)

Fire separation on boundaries

Building permit requirement and exemptions

R-Codes

R-Code Variation application

Setbacks and open space requirements

Height limits

Building permit application requirements

Required forms and supporting plans

Notes on exemptions and compliance

Enquiries

Shire of Collie contact details

Building Information Sheet: PATIOS and CARPORTS SAMPLE PLANS and DETAILS A patio is an open structure (enclosed on no more than two sides) with a roof cover which is impermeable to water, and is usually used for outdoor living/entertainment. A patio or carport must be built to comply with the Building Code of Australia (BCA), AND, the Western Australian Residential Design Codes (R-Codes) . BCA Fire Separation The BCA requires fire separation for a carport/patio on the boundary. See figure below for calculations of the one third open requirement. A Building Permit is required for all patios which are not exempt under the Building Regulations 2012. Exemptions The Building Regulations 2012(sch.4, cl.2) allows some structures to be exempt from needing a building permit. All building work that is exempt must be built to the minimum BCA standard. Any freestanding (not attached to a dwelling) class 10 building e.g. gazebo which is – (a) less than 10m²; and (b) less than 2.4m in height from ground level. Any freestanding (not attached to a dwelling) pergola with no roof cover which is – (a) less than 20m²; and (b) is less than 2.4m in height from ground level. R-CODES An application for an R-Code Variation is required for any proposed patio in the residential zone that does not comply with the following relevant provisions: Street Setbacks-A patio or carport in a residential area must be no closer to the boundary facing the primary street than the minimum setbacks prescribed in column 7, Table 1 of the Residential Design Codes. If you have a corner property, the patio or verandah must be located a minimum of 1 .5m from the secondary street boundary. Side / Rear Boundary Setbacks – A patio or carport up to 9m in length in a residential area must have posts setback a minimum of 1m from a property boundary. A patio or carport more than 9m in length must have posts setback a minimum of 1.5m from the boundary. Eaves may encroach into the setback area up to 750mm. Open Space-The minimum open space requirements outlined in column 6, Table 1 of the Residential Design Codes must be maintained for the site. Height-The maximum height of the posts for a carport or patio is 2.4m and a maximum roof height of 4 . 2m applies, unless Planning Approval is granted for an over height structure. Building Permit Application Requirements Note: An Application for building permit must be signed by the builder. Buildings with an estimated constructed value greater than $20,000 must be constructed by a registered builder OR an owner-builder with approval from the Building Services Board. This document is intended as a guide only to assist applicants. For further information on outbuildings please contact the Shire of Collie. Additional information may be requested upon assessment of your application □ BA2 Uncertified Building Permit Application form; OR □ BA1 Certified Building Permit Application form with a BA3 Certificate of Design Compliance (CDC) □ Site Plan (1:200 scale)– showing ALL buildings and the proposed building; location and setback distances, position of septic tanks and leach drains if applicable. □ Engineers details and specifications. REFER TO ATTACHED DETAILS □ Elevation Plans and cross sections (Minimum 1:100 scale) This publication is intended as to provide general information only. Exemption from requiring a Building Permit does not exempt compliance with the BCA, Local Laws, Local Planning Scheme (LPS) and Local Planning Policies. Please contact the Shire of Collie to ensure your proposed development is compliant. Enquiries Enquiries may be made to the Shire of Collie staff atPhone: 08 9734 9000 Email: [colshire@collie.wa.gov.au](colshire@collie.wa.gov.au) [Website:](Website: www.collie.wa.gov.au)[ ](Website: www.collie.wa.gov.au)[www.collie.wa.gov.au](Website: www.collie.wa.gov.au)[ ](Website: www.collie.wa.gov.au)At the Shire offices between the hours of 8.30am – 4.3

FAQs

What conditions define a patio for these requirements?

A patio is an open structure enclosed on no more than two sides, with a water-impermeable roof cover, typically used for outdoor living or entertainment.

When is a building permit required for a patio or carport?

A building permit is required for all patios that are not exempt under the Building Regulations 2012. Even if exempt from a permit, the work must still comply with the BCA and local planning requirements.

What are the key R-Codes limits for setbacks and height?

Residential patios or carports must meet street and side/rear setback distances, maintain required open space, and have a maximum post height of 2.4 m and a maximum roof height of 4.2 m unless planning approval is granted.

Oct 28, 2026

Upload by Jake