Building Line

What is a building line? 

A building line refers to an imaginary line that marks the outer edge of a building. It marks the limits of a new construction and is determined based on the proximity of the building to the property boundaries. It is measured from either the primary road (for a regular lot) or, in the case of an access-impaired or "battle-axe" lot, from the rear boundary of the dwelling house located in front of the battle-axe lot.

How to determine your building line 

There are 2 primary ways of determining your building line. 

1. Serve a Boundary Notice 

A Boundary Notice is a written communication notifying your neighbour of your intention to determine the location of boundary lines. It should convey your intent to engage a registered surveyor if an agreement on the common boundary cannot be reached with your neighbour. 

Upon receipt of a Boundary Notice, your neighbour is given a 7-day period to indicate their interpretation of the boundary line. They can do so by physically marking it with pegs or by enlisting the services of their own surveyor. 

2. Hire a registered surveyor 

If your neighbour doesn’t hire a surveyor or peg their boundary line within the given period, you can hire a registered surveyor to define the boundary lines. Typically, costs will be distributed equally amongst neighbours. 

However, if your neighbour responds to your Boundary Notice by pegging out the boundary line and the surveyor confirms your neighbour's markings to be correct, they are entitled to claim any costs that have incurred. 

Can carports be in front of the building line? 

Generally, carports cannot be in front of the building line. In states such as NSW, carports must be at least 1 metre behind the building line facing any road.