Bundaberg Regional Council has made resources available which make it easier for residents to understand the rules and approval processes for driveway construction to maintain safety and stormwater drainage standards.
Due to their position within the road reserve driveways must comply with a range of standards that maintain safe community access to pathways and public spaces.
Roads and Infrastructure (urban) portfolio spokesperson Cr Larine Statham-Blair said applying for driveway work approval was important for several reasons.
“Driveway construction and maintenance is the responsibility of the property owner however it’s critical that anyone installing a new driveway or undertaking modifications is aware of the proper standards and processes,” Cr Statham-Blair said.
“While we understand residents may want to get started quickly, taking the time to follow the correct process helps avoid future issues, protects community assets and ensures driveways are safe.
“Driveways are more than just access points to private properties – they intersect with public infrastructure.
“They need to be constructed correctly so there are no risks to pedestrians or other vehicles, stormwater runoff is managed properly and kerbs and pathways are protected.
“Council is asking residents to take a quick look at the guidelines and get the green light before kicking off any driveway projects.”
Cr Statham-Blair said the engineering standards could be tricky to understand so Council had developed resources to support the community in managing the process.
“A fact sheet and animated video are now available to help residents in ensuring their driveways are safe and compliant.
“Anyone with questions is encouraged to head to Council’s website to learn more or speak with our team before starting work.”
The website content is available here or you can contact Council on 1300 883 699.
What you need to know
Approval is essential:
Property owners must submit an application to Council before starting any driveway work.
This includes new driveways, modifications or repairs.
Applications are assessed to ensure safety and compliance with Council standards.
Design matters:
Driveways must follow Council’s standard drawings, available on the Council website.
If your design varies from these standards, it must be endorsed by a Registered Professional Engineer of Queensland (RPEQ) and approved by Council.
Safety first:
Driveways must not interfere with pedestrian pathways, stormwater flow or existing infrastructure.
For this reason, care should be taken to ensure any driveway does not impede pedestrian access or alter constructed pathways without prior approval.
Heavy vehicle access:
Residential driveways are suitable for vehicles up to 3,000kg.
Heavier vehicles, including caravans and SUVs require a heavy-duty slab.
Commercial driveways must be designed by an RPEQ.
One driveway rule:
Properties are generally allowed one driveway.
Additional driveways require Council assessment and approval, especially if the property fronts multiple roads.
Insurance required:
Anyone carrying out driveway work must hold a current Public Liability Insurance policy of at least $20 million.
Check before you dig:
Contact Before You Dig Australia (BYDA) to locate underground services before starting work.
To find out more about building or modifying driveways, head to the Bundaberg Regional Council website here.
