Building and plumbing information
This section covers a number of additional approvals/information that may be required to obtain approval for building and plumbing applications.
Certificate of classification - occupancy
Water approvals for plumbing applications
Not-for-profit status
Council offers a reduction in plumbing application fees for organisations approved for 'not-for-profit' status. All requests must be submitted on the application form or if previously approved, a copy of the approval letter must be attached to all new application lodgements.
Certificate of Classification - Occupancy
From 1 October 2020, the Certificate of Classification (Form 11) has been amended and renamed the Certificate of Occupancy. It can also be used as the Interim Certificate of Occupancy to fulfill the requirements under section 104 of the Building Act 1975. Any Certificate of Classification issued before 1 October 2020 that is still in force, is taken to be a Certification of Occupancy from 1 October 2020.
Buildings other than class 1a & 10 should have a Certificate of Occupancy before using or occupying a building. If a building has had alterations and/or additions made without approval, a new building application is required. As Council no longer certifies commercial buildings, customers are requested to contact a Licensed Building Certifier.
To apply for a Certificate of Classification - Occupancy, Council's approved application form is to be completed together with the appropriate payment.
Apply for a Certificate of Classification - Occupancy
Water approvals for plumbing applications
Evidence of water approval must be provided from Urban Utilities at the application stage if located in a reticulated supply service area. For further details, contact Urban Utilities on 13 26 57.
Find more information on obtaining water approval on Urban Utilities website.
Asbestos
Asbestos is the generic term for a number of fibrous silicate minerals. Products made from asbestos cement - a bonded asbestos material - include fibro sheeting (flat and profiled) guttering and downpipes, as well as other pipes for water, drainage or flues, corrugated roofing sheets, roofing shingles and guttering. Before the health risks were known, asbestos products were widely used because they were durable, fire resistant and had good insulation properties. The manufacture and use of asbestos products was banned nationally from 31 December 2003.
Find more information about asbestos removal on the QBCC website
Temporary dwellings
People who are building their own home and wish to live on-site must obtain a temporary accommodation licence from Council. For further information, contact Council's Regulatory Services department on 07 5540 5111. To apply customers should read the checklist and complete the application:
Tiny houses
Tiny houses are small and compact dwellings that are, in most cases, fully self-contained. Tiny houses are often designed to be relocated and can range in size. For further information contact Council's Development Assessment and Engineering department for further details.