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How High Can I Build My Shed? A Guide for QLD Homeowners (Domestic)

Thinking of building a shed on your property in Queensland and wondering how tall you can go? Whether it's a backyard workshop, rural farm shed, or a large garage, there are council rules and planning codes you’ll need to follow — especially when it comes to shed height, setbacks, and boundary clearances.

At Dinky Di Sheds, we help our customers navigate these regulations so they can get the shed they want, with no surprises along the way. Here's a clear breakdown of the height rules and how they affect your shed design:

1. Mean Height Matters

If your shed has a pitched roof, the mean height is the average of the wall height at the boundary and the height at the apex.

If the mean height exceeds 3.5 metres, the shed must be at least 1.5 metres away from the side boundary.

2. Boundary Clearance Based on Height

The setback from the boundary changes depending on how tall the structure is at the boundary point:

Up to 4.5m high: Must be 1.5m from side or rear boundary
4.5m – 7.5m high: Must be 2m from boundary
Over 7.5m high: Must be 2m, plus 0.5m for every 3m (or part) that exceeds 7.5m

3. Height Limits on Sloped Land

If you're building on sloped ground:

Up to 15% slope: Maximum shed height is 8.5 metres
More than 15% slope: Maximum height increases to 10 metres

4. Respecting Neighbours’ Privacy

If your shed is near your neighbour’s habitable windows:

Keep your shed at least 1.5 metres away from any required window in a neighbour’s living space.
If closer, you'll need to include privacy solutions such as:
- Obscure glazing below 1.5m
- High sills (1.5m above floor level)
- Privacy screens for balconies or windows

5. Shed Walls Close to Boundaries

If your shed is close to the boundary:

Minimum setback is 750mm, unless:
- The wall is maintenance-free (e.g. pre-painted steel sheeting or unpainted masonry) — then it can be built closer.

6. Maximum Roofed Area

All buildings and structures on your lot must not exceed 50% of the total lot area when roofed with impervious materials (like steel or COLORBOND® roofing).

Need Help With Council Approval?

Navigating shed rules can be tricky, but we’re here to help.

At Dinky Di Sheds, we offer custom shed designs that meet your local council’s regulations — including site-specific engineering and council-ready plans. Whether you're in Toowoomba, the Lockyer Valley, or surrounding regions, we’ll make sure your shed ticks all the boxes.