Do You Need Council Approval for a Bathroom Renovation in Sydney?

For most bathroom renovations in Sydney, you don’t need council approval — as long as you’re not making structural changes or altering the building’s footprint.

However, there are important exceptions, especially if you live in an apartment, heritage-listed property, or are moving plumbing fixtures.

When You Don’t Need Council Approval

In general, you can renovate your bathroom without formal council approval if:

• The work is considered “cosmetic” (e.g. replacing tiles, fixtures, or fittings)

• You’re not removing or altering load-bearing walls

• You’re not adding a new bathroom or extending the building
  

When You Do Need Council Approval

You might need approval if your renovation involves:

• Structural changes (e.g. removing walls or changing window/door locations)

• Altering plumbing layouts in ways that affect the building’s structure

• Heritage-listed properties, which often have extra restrictions

• Extensions or conversions that change the home’s footprint

You can let us know your situation and we can advise if there will be any approvals involved before going ahead.

Apartments & Strata Properties

Even if council approval isn’t needed, most Sydney apartment renovations require strata approval. This usually involves:

• Submitting a scope of works to your strata manager

• Using licensed, insured trades (yes, we are both)

• Following specific noise and work-hour restrictions

  
  

Other Rules to Keep in Mind

• Waterproofing must comply with Australian Standards (AS 3740) and be done by a qualified professional

• Plumbing work must be carried out by a licensed plumber under NSW regulations

• In some council areas, large renovations may require a Complying Development Certificate (CDC) instead of a full DA
  

The Plumbing Things Promise

At Plumbing Things, we handle bathroom renovations all across Sydney — Inner West, Eastern Suburbs, North Shore, Northern Beaches, South Sydney and more. We’ll guide you through the approval process, work with your strata if needed, and make sure all work meets NSW building codes - so your renovation is compliant from start to finish.

We’re also committed to fair, transparent pricing - no hidden fees, no overcharging.

Thinking about a bathroom renovation? Call 0422 348 653 or request a quote online and we’ll walk you through exactly what’s required for your property.