Patio vs deck, what’s the difference for planning purposes?

How Queensland building codes distinguish patios and decks

The distinction isn't always clear cut in everyday language, but for building approval purposes the key factors are:

Height above ground: A deck is typically elevated above ground level, often on posts or bearers and joists. A patio is typically at or near ground level, often on a concrete slab.

Structure type: Decks are timber or composite platforms; patios are generally paved or concreted areas, often with a roofed structure above.

Roof: Patios are almost always roofed. Decks may be roofed or open. A roofed structure, regardless of whether it's called a patio or deck, generally triggers a building approval requirement.

For the purposes of Plan Draft's fixed price service, we use 'patio and deck' as a combined category covering both ground level roofed patios and elevated deck extensions.

Do both need building approval?

In most cases, yes. The approval requirement depends on size, height and whether the structure is roofed:

Roofed patios: Almost always require a building approval. A roofed structure connected to the house is assessable development under Brisbane City Plan 2014.

Elevated decks: Require approval when they exceed a certain height above ground (generally 300mm or more) or include balustrades and stairs. Most residential decks in Brisbane fall within this threshold.

Ground level open decks: Small, low, open decks may qualify as accepted development in some cases, but the exemption criteria are specific and often misunderstood.

A private building certifier can confirm whether your specific structure requires approval.

What documentation does each need?

The documentation set for patios and decks is broadly similar but elevated decks require more structural detail:

Ground level roofed patio: Site plan, floor plan, roof plan, elevations, specification. Framing is simpler and sections are rarely required.

Elevated deck: Site plan, floor plan, framing layout, elevations, sections, balustrade and stair detail, specification.

Plan Draft covers both within the $2,990 fixed price scope. View the full service details for patio plans or deck plans.

Setback rules for patios and decks in Brisbane

Under the Queensland Development Code, the standard setback for patios and decks is 1.5m from side and rear boundaries. If your structure needs to sit closer than 1.5m to a boundary, you'll need a siting variation from Brisbane City Council, a separate application and fee on top of the standard building approval.

We check setback compliance at suitability review so you know before any work begins whether a siting variation is likely.

Common questions