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Unroofed pergolas and arbours

Relevant rules in the Regulation:

Schedule 1, Part 1.4, Division 1.4.2, Section 1.44.

An unroofed pergola or arbour doesn't need DA approval if:

it isn't an external deck or external verandah
it has no roof or walls
it isn't more than 3m above datum ground level. The structure can be as high as 4m above ground level if no part is higher than a 30° plane
if the building has a floor and:
- the floor height isn't more than 1m above finished ground level, or
- 0.4m above datum ground level if it's within 1.5m of a side boundary or rear boundary of the block.

Extra criteria apply if you're building 2 exempt class 10 structures within 1.5 metres of a side or rear block boundary.

Also see:

second building clearance area exemptions
DA exemptions for:
- carports, pergolas and shade structures
- unroofed decks, patios and terraces.
unroofed pergola and arbour BA exemptions.

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We acknowledge the Ngunnawal people as traditional custodians of the ACT and recognise any other people or families with connection to the lands of the ACT and region. We acknowledge and respect their continuing culture and the contribution they make to the life of this city and this region.