28 January 2026
It's the question every builder, owner-builder and homeowner Googles before booking a scaffolder: do I need a permit? The short answer is — sometimes. The longer answer depends on three things: where the scaffold sits, how high it is, and who's erecting it.
This guide cuts through the confusion for projects on the Sunshine Coast and across Queensland.
When You DO Need a Permit
A permit (or formal council approval) is generally required when:
| Situation | Approval Needed |
|---|---|
| Scaffold encroaches on a footpath, road or public land | Council Road Occupancy / Footpath Permit |
| Scaffold is over 4m high (high-risk work) | Licensed scaffolder with HRW licence |
| Project is part of a building approval | Covered by your overall BA |
| Scaffold blocks a parking bay or lane | Council temporary closure approval |
On the Sunshine Coast, footpath and road occupancy permits are issued by Sunshine Coast Council or Noosa Council depending on your suburb.
When You DON'T Need a Permit
You generally don't need a separate permit when:
- The scaffold sits entirely within your private property boundary
- It's under 4m and doesn't require a high-risk worker (still strongly recommended)
- It's part of a building project with an active building approval that already covers temporary works
But "no permit" is not the same as "no compliance". Every scaffold in Queensland still has to meet the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 and AS/NZS 4576.
High-Risk Work Licence: Non-Negotiable
In Queensland, anyone erecting, altering or dismantling scaffold over 4m must hold a current high-risk work (HRW) licence — Basic, Intermediate or Advanced depending on the job. This is regulated by Workplace Health and Safety Queensland.
"If your scaffolder can't show you a current HRW licence card on request, walk away. It's that simple."
What Happens If You Get It Wrong
Skipping a footpath permit or using an unlicensed scaffolder isn't a paperwork problem — it's a financial and legal one.
- Stop-work orders from a council inspector or WHSQ
- Fines up to $36,000 for a corporation, $7,200 for an individual
- Insurance voided if there's an incident on non-compliant scaffold
- Personal liability if you're the homeowner or builder of record
The Sunshine Coast Quirk
Many Sunshine Coast streets — particularly in older parts of Maroochydore, Caloundra and Noosa — have narrow verges where almost any street-front scaffold will encroach on the footpath. Assume you'll need a council permit unless your scaffolder confirms otherwise in writing.
How We Handle It
When we quote a job, we tell you up front whether a permit is needed, who lodges it, and what the council fee will be. No surprises mid-build.
Need a Compliant Scaffolder?
Get a quote from a fully licensed Sunshine Coast scaffolder who handles the paperwork as standard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I erect my own scaffold as a homeowner?
Only under 4m, and only if you fully understand AS/NZS 4576. Above 4m it's illegal without a high-risk work licence.
Who lodges the council permit — me or the scaffolder?
We lodge it on your behalf as part of the quote. You'll see the council fee itemised separately.
How long does a footpath permit take?
Usually 5–10 business days on the Sunshine Coast. We build that lead time into the program.