Do I Need Council Approval for Internal Renovations in QLD?

If you’re planning an internal renovation in Queensland — whether it’s a new kitchen, bathroom upgrade, or a full internal reconfiguration — one of the first questions you’ll ask is:

Do I need council approval for internal renovations in QLD?

The short answer is: sometimes.

Many internal renovations do not require council approval, but there are important exceptions. Structural changes, plumbing alterations, and certain compliance issues can trigger approval or certification requirements — and getting it wrong can cause serious delays, fines, or resale issues later.

This guide breaks down exactly when council approval is required, when it’s not, and what you need to do to stay compliant in Queensland.

What Counts as an Internal Renovation?

Internal renovations generally involve changes made inside the existing footprint of your home, such as:

• Kitchen renovations
• Bathroom renovations
• Laundry upgrades
• Removing or relocating internal walls
• New flooring or finishes
• Ceiling changes
• Electrical and plumbing upgrades
• Internal layout changes

Even though these works happen inside your home, Queensland building laws still apply — especially if safety, structure, or services are affected.

Do Internal Renovations Always Need Council Approval in QLD?

No — most cosmetic internal renovations do not require council approval.

However, approval or certification is required when renovations involve:

• Structural changes
• Load-bearing walls
• Plumbing layout changes
• Waterproofing
• Fire safety compliance
• Changes to a building’s classification or use

In Queensland, approvals are often handled through private building certifiers, not directly through council — but the work must still comply with council regulations and the Queensland Building Act.

Internal Renovations That Usually Do NOT Require Council Approval

In most cases, you won’t need council approval for purely cosmetic or non-structural works, including:

• Replacing kitchen cabinetry (no layout changes)
• New benchtops or splashbacks
• Replacing bathroom fixtures in the same locations
• Painting and plastering
• Installing new flooring
• Replacing internal doors
• Built-in wardrobes or storage
• Lighting upgrades (non-structural)

As long as you’re not altering the structure or plumbing layout, these works are generally exempt from council approval.

When Council Approval IS Required for Internal Renovations

Structural Changes

If your renovation involves structural elements, approval is required. This includes:

• Removing or modifying load-bearing walls
• Altering beams, posts, or structural supports
• Changing roof or ceiling structure
• Creating new openings in structural walls

A structural engineer and building certifier are typically required for this type of work.

Bathroom & Kitchen Renovations (Plumbing Changes)

Bathrooms and kitchens are the most common renovations that trigger approval requirements, especially when plumbing is altered.

Approval or certification is required when:

• Plumbing fixtures are relocated
• New plumbing points are added
• Waterproofing membranes are installed or altered
• Drainage systems are changed

In Queensland, waterproofing work must be certified, even if council approval isn’t required. This is critical for insurance and resale.

Electrical Work

Most electrical work does not require council approval, but it must be carried out by a licensed electrician and comply with Australian Standards.

Approval may be required if:

• Electrical changes are part of a larger structural renovation
• Fire safety systems are impacted
• Smoke alarm compliance is affected

Fire Safety & Smoke Alarms

Internal renovations must comply with Queensland’s smoke alarm legislation, particularly when walls or ceilings are altered.

You may need upgrades if:

• Bedrooms are added or reconfigured
• Hallways are modified
• Ceilings are replaced or altered

Smoke alarms must meet current legislation, not the standards that applied when the house was originally built.

Changes to Use or Classification

Approval is required if your renovation changes how a space is used, for example:

• Converting a garage into a habitable room
• Creating a home office with client access
• Adding a bedroom
• Converting storage areas into living spaces

These changes can affect building classification, fire separation, insulation, ventilation, and minimum ceiling heights.

Council Approval vs Building Approval in QLD

This is where many homeowners get confused.

In Queensland:

• Council approval relates to planning rules and zoning
• Building approval relates to construction compliance and safety

Most internal renovations don’t require planning approval, but many still require building approval or certification through a private certifier.

A builder can help determine which approvals apply before work starts.

Do I Need a Building Certifier for Internal Renovations?

You may need a private building certifier if your renovation involves:

• Structural work
• Waterproofing
• Plumbing changes
• Load-bearing walls
• Building classification changes

The certifier ensures the work complies with the Building Code of Australia and Queensland regulations.

Skipping certification can cause major issues when selling or insuring your property.

What Happens If You Renovate Without Approval?

Renovating without required approval can lead to:

• Stop-work notices
• Costly rectification work
• Fines or penalties
• Insurance issues
• Problems selling your home
• Council enforcement action

Unapproved work is one of the most common reasons property sales fall through in Queensland.

How to Check If Your Renovation Needs Approval

Before starting any internal renovation, ask these questions:

1. Am I removing or altering walls?
2. Are any walls load-bearing?
3. Am I changing plumbing locations?
4. Is waterproofing involved?
5. Am I adding bedrooms or habitable rooms?
6. Will fire safety compliance be affected?

If you answer yes to any of these, approval or certification is likely required.

Who Is Responsible for Approvals?

Ultimately, the homeowner is responsible, even if you hire a builder or trades.

That said, a reputable builder should:

• Identify approval requirements early
• Coordinate engineers and certifiers if needed
• Ensure all work is compliant
• Provide documentation at completion

This is why choosing the right builder matters.

How Long Do Approvals Take in QLD?

Timeframes vary, but as a guide:

• Simple building certification: 1–3 weeks
• Structural approvals with engineering: 2–6 weeks
• Complex renovations: longer depending on scope

Early planning helps avoid delays once construction starts.

Internal Renovations in Queensland: Common Myths

“It’s inside, so approval isn’t needed.”
Not always true — structure and plumbing matter.

“My builder said it’s fine.”
Always confirm approvals in writing.

“Council won’t know.”
Unapproved work is often flagged during resale, insurance claims, or neighbour complaints.

Renovate with Confidence with Coast Construct Co

Internal renovations should improve your home — not create compliance headaches later.

At Coast Construct Co, we help homeowners navigate renovation approvals properly, identifying when council or building certification is required and managing the process from start to finish.