How do I get a copy of my House Plans?

Provided that the Townsville City Council has records of your property available, and that you have the appropriate authority (defined as being the owner of the property, or acting on behalf of an owner with their consent) to access the files, you have two [2] options:

We can make all the building files available for you to come in and search. You will be permitted to take photocopies of all the documents you require (please note that photocopying charges and a retrieval fee do apply).

If you require a specific document, such as your house plans or a final certificate etc, a council officer can search the files on your behalf for up to 30 minutes and try to source the required documents. Fees and charges vary depending the type/s of document/s requested, and further photocopying charges may apply depending on the size and quantity of copies you require.

Whether viewing files or requesting specific documents, all requests are to be submitted using the Search of Council Records Form found on the building and document searches page. The completed form can then be faxed or posted.

Please note that some files may be stored in council's archives and it is therefore a requirement that a minimum 48 hours notice be given when viewing files, otherwise search information is generally available within 5 business days, or upon receipt of a completed search form. Further note that whilst every effort is made to maintain all of council's property files, generally the council is only required to maintain them for a period of ten years. If you have any concerns or further questions please don't hesitate to contact the Planning and Development.

For an up to date list of fees and charges please refer to the Planning and Development - Schedule of Fees and Charges.

How do I know exactly where my boundary is?

The Townsville City Council advises that you could try to find the original survey pegs, or contact the Department of Natural Resources and Mines to obtain the original survey plan. However, if you want to know exactly where your boundary is, you will need to contact a private surveyor and engage them to come out and survey the property to find the exact boundary line. If you just require an estimate, Council can, through its GIS Mapping System, produce an aerial map which can be made to show boundary lines and distances. This is however only an estimate, but it will give some indication as to where the boundary lies.

What are the regulations to become an Owner Builder?

An Owner Builder's Licence is issued by the Queensland Building Services Authority (QBSA). They are located at 287 Ross River Road, Townsville and can be contacted on 4725 2588.

If the estimated value of work is less than $11,000 (including GST) a person can nominate themselves to be an Owner Builder on the building work application form and needs no other paper work.

If the estimated value of building work exceeds $11,000 the QBSA will issue an Owner Builder permit on application and this must be sighted by the Building Certifier before a Building Permit can be issued.