Understanding the difference early can help you avoid delays, added costs, and compliance issues. Here's a simple guide to help clarify the roles.
What your local council oversees
Your local council manages planning, zoning, and development regulations specific to your area. Every council has its own local planning scheme, which outlines what kind of development is permitted and where. This affects everything from what you can build to how your neighbourhood evolves over time.
Things you should check
Zoning information: Land is divided into zones like residential, commercial, industrial, or rural. Your project needs to comply with your land’s zoning regulations.
Development approvals: You may need council approval if you’re:
- building or extending a permanent structure
- constructing a high retaining wall
- clearing native vegetation
- demolishing existing structures
- changing the land use (e.g. turning a house into a shop)
- making major structural changes.
Property boundaries: Always check your current property lines—especially for projects near fences or edges of the lot. The Queensland SmartMaps tool is a great resource but double-check with your council for the most accurate info.
Why it matters: If you skip council checks, you could face penalties, delays, or be forced to redo work—costing you time and money. You may also be ineligible to certain protections under the QBCC if you have not complied with council regulations.
What building certifiers do
While your council handles what can be built and where, building certifiers ensure that construction is done correctly and in line with approved plans and building codes. Certifiers handle:
- assessing and approving building plans
- inspecting work at key construction stages
- issuing certificates of inspection
- enforcing compliance through notices, when necessary
- providing final approval so the building can be legally occupied.
Most of the time, your builder will engage a certifier for you. But you can also choose your own.
Use our free Find a Local Contractor tool to search for a licensed certifier and check their history through the QBCC Licensee Register.
Why it matters: We license these professionals to ensure they’ve met Queensland’s industry standards—giving you greater confidence in their qualifications and professionalism.
Need help?
If you're unsure, reach out to your council or contact the QBCC on 139 333—we're here to help guide you every step of the way.
You can also visit our Home Owner Hub for step-by-step guidance through the building and construction process—from planning to completion.
