Steps to Obtain a Plumbing Approval in the Noosa Shire (and When You Need One)

When planning plumbing work in the Noosa Shire, one of the more common questions we’re asked is:
“Do I need plumbing approval for this?”

The short answer is — often, yes. Plumbing approvals exist to protect public health, ensure compliance with Queensland regulations, and make sure systems are installed safely and correctly.

Below, we explain when a plumbing approval is required and the steps involved in obtaining one, so you can move forward with confidence.

What Is a Plumbing Approval?

A plumbing approval is formal permission issued by the Building and Plumbing department (within council) confirming that proposed plumbing or drainage work complies with the Queensland Plumbing and Wastewater Code and local Noosa Shire requirements.

Approval is required before work begins on many types of plumbing installations.

When Do You Need a Plumbing Approval?

In the Noosa Shire, a plumbing approval is generally required for:

• New plumbing installations

• Bathroom, kitchen, or laundry renovations

• New builds and extensions

• Installation or alteration of sewer or stormwater drainage

• Septic systems or on-site wastewater treatment systems

• Rainwater tanks connected to plumbing fixtures

• Hot water system replacements that involve altered pipework

• Trade waste installations

Minor repairs (such as fixing a leaking tap or replacing a valve) typically do not require approval.

If you’re altering or adding to an already approved and finalised plumbing system — for example moving fixtures or extending existing pipework — a Form 4 (Notifiable Work) may be used to certify those amendments with the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC), instead of lodging a new full approval application. Form 4s are lodged after the notifiable work is completed to confirm the changes meet compliance.

If you’re unsure, it’s always best to ask — getting it wrong can lead to costly rectification work or delays.

Step-by-Step: How to Obtain a Plumbing Approval in the Noosa Shire

1. Engage a Licensed Plumber Early

Your plumber plays a key role in identifying whether approval is required and preparing compliant plans. In many cases, we coordinate the process for you.

2. Prepare Plumbing Plans

Plans may include:

• Site layout

• Drainage and sewer connection details

• Fixture locations

• Stormwater management

These must align with Queensland and local Noosa Shire standards.

3. Lodge the Application

The application is submitted to Noosa Shire Council directly as a From 1 accompanied by relevant plans, forms, etc. Once lodged, a fee will be payable to have the information assessed by Council.

4. Approval Is Issued

Once assessed and approved, you’ll receive documentation confirming the work can proceed. As a general timeframe, you should allow 1-4 weeks for the approval to come through, that is unless a RFI (request for further information) is issued. Recieving an RFI is not cause for concern, it just means that additional information is needed to preliminarily approve the application.

5. Complete the Plumbing Work

All work must be carried out by a licensed plumber and strictly follow the approved plans.

6. Mandatory Inspections

Certain stages of work (such as underground drainage) must be inspected before covering or completion. This is something that the plumber will organise with the Council directly.

7. Final Certificate Issued

After inspections pass, a final approval certificate is issued, confirming the work meets regulatory standards.

Why Plumbing Approval Matters

Skipping approvals can result in:

• Fines or stop-work notices

• Insurance complications

• Issues when selling your property

• Costly rectification work

Approval protects you, your property, and future owners.

How We Can Help

At Plumbing & Gas Services Pomona, we:

• Advise whether plumbing approval is required

• Prepare compliant plumbing work

• Coordinate with Council

• Ensure all work meets Noosa Shire and Queensland standards

We believe plumbing should be done once — and done properly.

If you’re planning a renovation, new build, or plumbing upgrade, feel free to reach out before work begins.