Licensing & compliance

Local Laws govern most of Council's roles and responsibilities including parking, swimming pools, advertising signage, animal control, outdoor dining, overgrown allotments, pests and weeds, and nuisances such as noise and dust. Permits are required for certain activities.

Council regulates many business activities including food and dining, accommodation, personal services, advertising, commercial filming and busking.

Council offers a number of different tenure types for not-for-profit groups. Under a tenure arrangement, Council’s consent must be obtained before making any improvements, additions or alterations within or to the tenured area.

Council works to limit the spread of diseases and health risks posed by mosquitoes, midges, rats and mice. We also educate the public on your responsibilities and practical control measures.

Soil erosion from building sites, subdivisions and vegetation removal is a major source of pollution to our stormwater and waterways. Council enforces erosion and sediment control plans.

Many industrial, commercial and domestic activities can pollute our roadside gutters, stormwater drainage and waters with contaminants. Council enforces the protection of waterways in accordance with the Environmental Protection Act 1994.

Property owners are responsible for ensuring their stormwater system is correctly installed via a legal connection to the stormwater system.

Littering and illegal dumping makes our city look dirty and uncared for, and can have significant health, safety, financial and environmental impacts. It is an offence to dump or dispose of waste on public land, such as parks, reserves, creek banks, nature strips, beaches and easements.

Most building works and structural projects need building certification (also known as a building permit) from a private certifier before you start construction. This applies whether you are doing the building work yourself or using a licensed builder.

Your fencing or retaining wall project may require building certification. Certain landscaping works also require Council approval.

All new swimming pools and spas require building approval from Council. You must also register your pool or spa with the Queensland Government. Pool safety certificates are required when selling or leasing a property with a pool.

Council regulates many common activities that can cause neighbourhood conflict such as backyard fires, dust, noise and abandoned vehicles.