Decks & Pergolas rules in Melbourne
Building a deck or pergola in Melbourne? City of Melbourne applies the Victoria planning framework. Here's what that means locally — plus the overlays worth checking on your specific block.
Building permit hinges on height and whether it is attached
A low deck usually needs no building permit: a freestanding deck no more than 10 m² and no higher than 800 mm above the ground is exempt. Any deck attached to the house, or more than 800 mm above ground, needs a building permit. A planning permit is generally only needed if a planning overlay (heritage, etc.) applies.
Key rules at a glance
| Building permit - freestanding deck | Not required if 10 m² or less and 800 mm or less above ground |
| Building permit - attached deck | Required for any deck attached to the house, regardless of size or height |
| Building permit - height trigger | Required once the deck is more than 800 mm above ground |
| Pergola (building permit) | Not required if unroofed, 20 m² or less, 3.6 m or less high, sited near the front wall and not over an easement |
| Verandah (roofed) | A solid roof makes it a verandah, so a building permit is required |
| Planning permit | Generally only needed if a heritage, significant-landscape or character overlay applies |
Heritage, flood and bushfire controls on your specific lot can remove the fast-track and require a full application — even when the general rules say you're fine.
Deck or pergolas in Melbourne
City of Melbourne is the authority for Melbourne in Inner Melbourne. The statewide Victoria rules above set the baseline; the council can apply extra local controls, and heritage, flood or bushfire overlays on your lot can change what's allowed.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need council approval for a deck or pergola in Melbourne?
Usually yes. In Victoria, a deck or pergola generally needs an application, and City of Melbourne is the authority that assesses it. See the full state rules for the pathway and what's required.
Which council approves a deck or pergola in Melbourne?
City of Melbourne is the consent authority for Melbourne (Inner Melbourne). You can review local planning controls on the council website and lodge through your state planning portal.
Do I need a building permit for a deck in Victoria?
Not for a freestanding deck that is 10 m² or less and no higher than 800 mm above the ground. Any deck attached to the house, or more than 800 mm high, needs a building permit from a registered building surveyor.
Sources
- Landscaping (decks and pergolas) - Victorian Building Authority ↗
- When is a building permit required? - Victorian Building Authority ↗
Related building rules
General guidance only — not professional planning advice. Local requirements in Melbourne can differ from the statewide summary and change over time; always confirm with City of Melbourne before starting work. Last reviewed: July 2026.
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