Other building topics

Building in a bushfire prone area

Learn more about whether you live in a bushfire area, construction requirements for building in a bushfire prone area and what precautions you can take to help protect your home.

Termite management and maintenance

The entire Mornington Peninsula Shire has been determined and designated as subject to infestation by termites, in accordance with Regulation 150 of the Building Regulations 2018.

Smoke alarms

Smoke alarms are compulsory and must be installed in every residential building. Smoke from a fire is unlikely to wake you when you are asleep and the position of smoke alarms is intended to detect smoke before it reaches sleeping occupants of a building. Smoke alarms must comply with Australian Standard AS3786.

Install a rainwater tank

Domestic rainwater tanks do not require a Building Permit as the tank itself is not classified as a building. However, if the tank is contained within or on a proposed building, or supported by an existing building, a Building Permit is required.

Install a wood heater

You do not require a Building Permit to install a wood or solid-fuel household heating appliance, however it must be installed by a licensed plumber.

Balustrades and balconies

Information and advice on balcony, deck and balustrade repair and maintenance.

Backwash from swimming pools

The water discharged when backwashing the sand filter on a chlorinated or salt-treated swimming pool must not impact or flow onto any other property.