It is a requirement under the Queensland Building Services Authority Act 1991 (QBSA Act) that if you wish to perform or coordinate constructing of a garage, carport or domestic shed on your property for a single project of a value of $11,000 or more you must hold an owner builder permit. An owner builder permit is only issued by BSA.
What types of work are not covered by an owner builder permit?
The permit must be for a building used for residential purposes only. A permit will not be issued for construction or renovation of multiple dwellings, commercial premises (e.g. duplexes, boarding houses, shops, industrial buildings, shops, farm buildings etc). Where the work is to be carried out on a farm building please contact BSA as in certain circumstances this work may be exempt from the requirement to be carried out by a licensed person.
Who has to complete a course?
One of the people listed on the property Title, a company director if the property is owned by a company, or a lessee if the property is under a lease agreement, must complete an Owner Builder Course prior to lodging the owner builder application. In certain circumstances you may be able to request exemption from completing the owner builder course - please read the How to Obtain an Exemption from the Owner Builder Course for further information. Any requests for exemption should be submitted prior to lodging the application. A copy of BSA’s letter granting the exemption will need to be included with the application.
How to apply for an owner builder permit
1. One of the applicants named on the Title must complete an Owner Builder Course prior to lodging your application (or be granted an exemption from completing the course) – click here for more information
2. Complete an Owner Builder Permit Application form.
3. Lodge the application form along with proof of ownership of the property (original or certified copy of a Current Title Search or Registration Confirmation Statement) from the Titles Office, proof of identity and the required fee (all information is contained in the application form)
Useful Resources:
www.bsa.qld.gov.au – Building Services Authority (QLD)
www.nrw.qld.gov.au – Titles office
www.deir.qld.gov.au/workplace/ – Workplace Health and Safety