The Ultimate Guide to Drafting and Plans for Pools, Sheds, Carports, Verandas & Alfrescos in Victoria

f you’re planning to build a pool, shed, carport, veranda, or alfresco area on your property in Victoria, one thing is certain — you’ll need accurate drafting and plans that comply with Victorian regulations and council guidelines. In this comprehensive guide, we break down everything you need to know about drafting services, what’s included in your plans, when you need a building permit, and how to ensure your application is approved without delays.

What is Drafting and Why Does it Matter?

Drafting is the process of creating precise technical drawings that serve as the foundation for any construction or renovation project. These plans are essential for:

• Communicating your design vision to builders and tradespeople

• Demonstrating compliance with local council and building codes

• Securing your building permit in Victoria

• Ensuring structural safety and design accuracy

Without proper drafting, your project could be rejected by council or fail during construction.

Pool Drafting and Plans

Installing a pool in Victoria is not just about choosing the right design. You need professionally drafted pool plans that meet strict pool fencing, safety, and location regulations.

What Pool Drafting Plans Include:

• Site layout showing pool position, size, and depth

• Setback measurements from boundaries and existing structures

• Safety fencing and gates compliant with Victorian pool regulations

• Drainage and filtration system layout

• Elevation views of pool surrounds and coping

All pools deeper than 30cm in Victoria must be registered, and must include compliant fencing. Accurate drafting plans streamline the permit process and ensure safety compliance.

Shed Drafting and Plans

Whether you’re building a small garden shed or a large storage shed or workshop, the structure must be properly documented. Depending on size and location, your shed may need a building permit and engineering sign-off.

What Shed Drafting Plans Include:

• Floor plan showing shed dimensions

• Roof pitch and materials

• Elevation drawings (front, side, rear views)

• Footings or slab foundation details

• Location on site in relation to property boundaries

Sheds over 10m², or built within 1 metre of a fence, usually require a permit. Your local council may also impose height or boundary restrictions.

Carport Drafting and Plans

A carport is a valuable addition to any property, offering protection for your vehicle and increasing resale value. In Victoria, most carports require a building permit, especially if they are attached to your home or exceed specific dimensions.

What Carport Drafting Plans Include:

• Roof style: flat, gable, or skillion

• Post and beam structure layout

• Floor layout (concrete slab or pavers)

• Elevations and structural dimensions

• Drainage and water runoff solutions

Carports often require wind load calculations and compliance with the Building Code of Australia. A draftsperson ensures your carport plan includes all necessary structural detailing.

Veranda Drafting and Plans

A veranda can be a stunning addition to your home, providing year-round outdoor enjoyment and enhancing curb appeal. Because verandas are considered a structural extension, you’ll need professionally drafted plans to obtain council approval.

What Veranda Plans Include:

• Connection details to the existing home

• Roof type, pitch, and height

• Post sizes, beam spans, and footing details

• Rainwater drainage and downpipe positioning

• Floor elevation and material selection (timber, concrete, tiled)

Verandas must meet setback rules, especially when facing a street. Structural integrity and waterproofing must also meet building standards.

Alfresco Drafting and Plans

Alfresco areas are one of the most sought-after features in modern homes — offering the perfect blend of indoor comfort and outdoor living. If your alfresco is roofed or attached to the home, it will almost always require a building permit in Victoria.

What Alfresco Drafting Plans Include:

• Roof extension from the home (or freestanding structure)

• Outdoor kitchen or BBQ area layout

• Lighting and power points

• Structural materials (steel, timber, etc.)

• Drainage, downpipes, and ventilation (for enclosed alfrescos)

Alfrescos must comply with energy efficiency rules, especially when enclosed or connected to indoor living spaces.

Do You Need a Building Permit?

Here’s a quick breakdown of when a building permit is required for common outdoor structures in Victoria:

Structure	Permit Required?	Common Triggers for a Permit
Pool	Yes	Deeper than 30cm, fencing requirements
Shed	Often	Over 10m² or close to boundary
Carport	Yes	Any size if attached or visible from the street
Veranda	Yes	Structural extension of dwelling
Alfresco	Yes	Roofed or attached areas require drainage and compliance

Building without a permit can result in fines, delays, or orders to remove the structure.

What’s Included in a Full Drafting Package?

A professional drafting package for outdoor structures typically includes:

• Site Plan

• Floor Plan

• Elevations

• Sectional Views

• Structural Details (beams, posts, footings)

• Stormwater layout

• Shadow diagrams (if required)

• Engineering documentation (where needed)

These are the documents reviewed by your building surveyor or council to approve your project.

Why Use a Local Drafting Service in Victoria?

Choosing a drafting service based in Victoria offers several advantages:

• Familiarity with local council regulations

• Faster approvals due to correctly prepared plans

• Clear communication with local building surveyors and engineers

• Better understanding of regional construction standards

• On-site inspections when required

How We Can Help

At Building Permit Victoria, we specialise in:

• Drafting for pools, sheds, carports, verandas, and alfrescos

• Full plan documentation for building permits

• Servicing homeowners, builders, and developers across Melbourne, Geelong, Ballarat, and regional Victoria

• Fast turnaround times and expert guidance

We also assist in:

• Building permit applications

• Engineering coordination

• Council consultations

Whether you’re planning a small outdoor project or a major extension, we provide the support you need to get approved and get building.

Get Started Today

If you’re ready to build with confidence, contact us for a fast, obligation-free quote.

Phone: 0412 740 510

Email: info@buildingpermitvictoria.com.au

Website: www.buildingpermitvictoria.com.au

Let’s take the stress out of the drafting and permit process — and bring your vision to life.