In Queensland, the rules for carrying out demolition projects differ between local councils. So, if you’re planning a Gold Coast demolition, the rules can differ from those in Brisbane.
Here’s a quick rundown of the different rules involved in a Gold Coast demolition and where they can differ from those in other councils, like Brisbane.
Development Approvals and Permits
Before you start a demolition project in the Gold Coast area, you should check to see if the property is subject to a planning scheme under the local city council. Some demolitions, particularly those involving heritage-listed properties, need approval through a development application. In the Gold Coast area, you need council approval if:
- Property is heritage-listed or located in a heritage precinct
- Demolition damages asbestos-containing materials
- Property is in a regulated development zone
- Project involves a partial demolition
Meanwhile, demolition jobs in Brisbane require building approval from the local council, for which you need to provide plans prepared by a professional. In some cases, you may also need planning approval, depending on whether the property is a heritage site.
Asbestos and Hazardous Material Management
The 1994 Environmental Protection Act regulates asbestos and hazardous material management across Queensland, though enforcement can differ between councils. In the Gold Coast area, compliance focuses on performing a pre-demolition assessment and carrying out safe disposal practices.
The same applies to Brisbane Council, where sections 452 and 453 of the Work, Health and Safety Regulations 2011 require asbestos removal before demolition. In both areas, only licensed asbestos removalists can legally remove and dispose of the material.
Waste Management and Recycling
Since waste management is governed by Queensland law, the requirements are largely the same across both councils. Both councils are subject to the Waste Reduction and Recycling Act 2011 and the Environmental Protection Act 1994, which define core obligations involving asbestos disposal, waste tracking, and recycling.
The main difference lies in the available local facilities and council-specific processes, like which council-owned recycling depots accept demolition waste, and if you need pre-approval for large volumes.
Licensing Requirements for Demolition Contractors
In Queensland, any individual or company planning a demolition project should hire professionals with a valid licence through the QBCC. Typically, they need separate licences for residential and commercial demolition, as well as Class A or B asbestos removal licences.
Specialists like Next Gen Demolition are licensed to handle both low-rise and medium-rise demolition jobs, including the removal of friable and non-friable asbestos. This applies to both the Gold Coast Local Council and the Brisbane Local Council.
Site Management Standards
During your Gold Coast demolition project, you need to manage environmental nuisances like dust, vibration, and noise. The local city council has time-of-day limits on demolition noise. On weekdays, this is from 6:30 am to 6:30 pm, while Saturday timings are from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm, with no work allowed on Sundays and public holidays. It’s also mandatory to use dust suppression measures, such as dust screens and water sprays, with penalties in place for noncompliance.
In Brisbane, noise limits are from 6:30 am to 6:30 pm from Monday to Saturday, with additional approval required to work outside these prescribed hours. Similarly, the council requires you to devise noise, vibration, and dust impact management plans.
Working Near Neighbouring Properties
For demolition projects near neighbouring properties, there are some differences between the rules in Brisbane and Gold Coast. In Brisbane, demolition activities are tightly monitored to avoid disturbing neighbours in the suburbs. In the Gold Coast area, there’s an added emphasis on reducing the impact on tourism-sensitive, waterfront areas. Although the rules about protecting neighbouring properties appear the same on paper, they can look a little different in practice.
Choose Experienced Professionals for Compliant Gold Coast Demolitions
When you’re planning a demolition project in the Gold Coast area, rules can differ from those in other councils, like Brisbane. There are subtle differences between development approvals, asbestos removal, waste management, and recycling, even though they fall under the same Queensland regulations. The best way to make sure you’re fully compliant, whether your demolition is in Gold Coast or Brisbane, is to work with an experienced professional.
At Next Gen Demolition, our team of experts is licensed and experienced to handle jobs of different scales. We’re equipped with the latest machinery and are well-versed in local regulations to ensure an efficient and compliant project.