Owner Builder Institute
Owner Builder Institute
Owner Builder Guide Tasmania (TAS)
Introduction
In Tasmania, an owner builder is an individual who takes personal responsibility for building or renovating their own home or property.
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Depending on the type and scale of work, some projects may require an Owner Builder Permit, while smaller “Low Risk Work” does not.
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Important: We provide guidance and resources but are not an authorised provider of Owner Builder courses.
Owner Builder Permit – When You Need One
For larger projects, you may need an Owner Builder Permit. This applies to:
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Non-prefabricated sheds larger than 18m² or garages larger than 36m²
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Class 8 farm sheds
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Class 10 retaining walls or swimming pools
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New homes or additions to existing homes
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Note: Class 10 structures (sheds, garages, farm buildings, retaining walls) are not counted towards your two-project limit and do not require the Owner Builder course.
Eligibility and Qualifications
To apply for an Owner Builder permit in Tasmania, you must meet the following criteria:
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You must be a natural person (companies cannot apply)
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You must own the land or have contracted to buy it
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Public liability insurance of at least $5 million is required
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Completion of a White Card course
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Completion of an approved Owner Builder course for Class 1a residential buildings
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Restricted to two projects in ten years for Class 1a work
Low Risk Work – No Permit Required
Certain small-scale projects are considered Low Risk Work by an Owner and do not require an Owner Builder Permit.
These include:
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Repairs to your home
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Small outbuildings, garages, or sheds:
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Prefabricated: up to 36m²
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Non-prefabricated: up to 18m²
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Class 7b farm sheds
Anyone, including tradespeople you hire, can do this work without a permit.
Owner Builder Permit – Tasmania Approval Process
1. Design Your Plans – Work with a licensed Tasmanian Building Designer or Architect to create your building plans.
2. Engage a Building Surveyor – Your surveyor will certify the plans and provide a copy to your local Tasmanian council.
3. Complete Required Courses – If you’re building a Class 1a home in Tasmania, complete an Owner Builder course and a White Card course. (Not required for Class 8, 10a, or 10b buildings.)
4. Arrange Insurance – Ensure you have public and construction liability insurance of at least $5 million.
5. Prepare Your Application – Complete the application form and include all necessary supporting documents.
6. Submit Application – Lodge your application at any Service Tasmania shop and pay the applicable fee.
7. Receive Confirmation – If approved, CBOS will issue a letter of confirmation with your permit number.
8. Apply for Building Permit – Submit your building permit application to your local Tasmanian council.
9. Start Construction – Only begin work once you have received building, plumbing, and planning permits from your council. You must also provide your Building Surveyor with a Form 39 Start Work Notification and Authorisation – Building Work, and wait for their approval to start.
Stay informed with Owner Builder Institute resources and upcoming TAS training announcements. Join our list to receive expert guidance as it becomes available.
Helpful websites:
• CBOS Tasmania: Owner builder registration guides (cbos.tas.gov.au)
• Dept of Justice: Building and construction standards (justice.tas.gov.au)
• Local Council: Search '[Local Council Name] + owner builder' online
• WorkSafe Tasmania: Safety compliance (worksafe.tas.gov.au)