Wondering what the rules and regulations are for installing a pergola or gazebo in Northern Territory? In this article we answer your questions and explain everything you need to know for a safe, stress-free installation.
When you’re installing a pergola or gazebo, finding the right information and working out what rules apply to your space can feel a little overwhelming! We understand. That’s why we’ve explained everything you need to know in a clear and simple way.
After reading this article you should have a good understanding of the rules and requirements for installing an outdoor structure in New South Wales.
Please note, in this article we refer to pergola and gazebo interchangeably to describe any outdoor shade structure.
If after reading this article, you feel like you need help, we can do the certification for you or refer you to a local certifier.
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The first section of this article applies to Northern Territory and covers building permit and installation requirements for pergolas and gazebos in this region only.
The second section covers rules that apply Australia-wide including: -
Important: *This document provides a simplified overview of current regulations in reference to Spa World™ products. It is not a complete guide. We advise all customers to seek independent advice in relation to their own personal site requirements. The information in this article was accurate at the time of writing. This can change without notice and you must check the latest information with your local council.
Disclaimer - Vortex Pergolas™ are intended as semi-permanent structures. Please contact a local certifier or your local council for semi-permanent structure approval requirements.
Contact the team at Spa World™ for a certifier referral in your area.
Yes, all Vortex pergola™ models (the 3300, 3400, 4600) need a building permit in Northern Territory.
Yes, in most cases, you will need to install drainage around your pergola or gazebo if the roof is fully closed or can be closed. We always recommend checking local council regulations before you purchase or install a pergola.
Please note:
Depending on your local regulations, you may not be allowed to let the water come out of the water spouts at the bottom of the pergola posts and onto the ground without drainage to catch and redirect it to the household stormwater system.
If you are installing your spa on an existing or new pad, you should consult with a building certifier before any installation to determine the requirements.
If you intend to position the pergola so it’s located over an easement or an asset of a relevant authority (for example, the council or storm water or sewer assets), you may need to apply for consent as part of the building permit application.
Spa World™ recommends that you seek the advice of a local certifier. These specialists have the tools and knowledge that can help save you time and money.
A licensed building contractor is not required to build a Vortex Pergola™. However, hiring a licensed builder to assemble a pergola will ensure your plans comply with all relevant building standards and regulations.
Yes, if you have a motorised pergola, you will need to hire an electrician to hardwire the electrical supply. This is to ensure the motorised louvre roof and LED lighting operate correctly.
You can schedule an electrician to arrive once the framework (column posts and beams) of the pergola are assembled.
You may need an engineer to certify the foundation if you are securing your pergola to a foundation that is not a concrete slab, for example, to a deck,
Standard concrete foundations must meet the engineering certifications that are included in the tech sheets supplied with each pergola model.
Yes, a pergola can be installed onto a deck. However you will need an engineer to confirm the deck is structurally strong enough to attach the pergola to it.
For the safety of your home, friends and family, all 240 volt appliances need electrical approvals.
Approvals for a Spa World™ product are available on request by emailing compliance@spaworld.com.au
An installation service is not offered at Spa World™. However, we recommend that you chat with your Spa World™ sales consultant who may be able to provide you with referral options for installers in your area.
We recommend at least three people are involved with the installation. To learn how a Vortex™ pergola is assembled, watch the video below.
We suggest that you allow between 4 to 8 hours to fully assemble a Vortex™ pergola. The time depends on a number of factors including level of experience, technical ability and location environment.
We suggest that you allow between 4 to 8 hours to fully assemble a Vortex™ pergola. The time depends on a number of factors including level of experience, technical ability and location environment.
The three Vortex™ pergola models are different in dimension, ranging from 3x3 metres to 4x6 metres and all with a height of 2.7 metres. Spa World™ does not offer Vortex™ pergolas in custom-made sizes.
Pavers are never a suitable option. If the pergola is not secured to a complete slab of minimum 100mm thickness it should have significant footing. The engineers have a footing for underneath each post of up to 2000mm deep and 450mm diameter (depending on pergola size and soil type).
If you wish to attach a pergola to an existing structure, such as a house, it is recommended to first consult a builder or engineer.
The number of motors on a Vortex™ pergola vary depending on the model. The Vortex™ 3300 has one motor and the 3400 and 4600 models have two motors.
The wind rating for Vortex™ pergolas varies. Please refer to the tech sheets available on the pergola product pages. The BCA (Building Codes of Australia) for the 3300, 3400 and 4600 models is 10a.
The grade of aluminum used for Vortex™ pergolas is 6063-T5. For more information on the properties of the aluminium, download the tech sheets available for each pergola model.
The LED lights on Vortex™ pergolas shine white and coloured LED lights are not available as an optional accessory. You may find other pergola brands offer different options.
Vortex™ pergolas don’t have the ability to close automatically. To close the louvres, you will need to use the remote control or touch pad on the wireless receiver.
Yes, manual pergola blinds can be purchased through Spa World™ for the Vortex™ pergola range. Watch a video about their key features.
To learn how to assemble them, watch the step-by-step video below.
Please note, motorised pergola blinds aren’t available at this stage.
Keeping your pergola in its best condition requires regular maintenance. We recommend -
We hope this article has helped answer your questions about the rules, regulations and what you can and can’t do with your new pergola.
If you need help or have further questions, please get in touch with our Certification Team. We can help with advice and put you touch with recommended certifiers in your area. Click the button below to contact us.
You can also head to the Spa World™ learning centre where you will find a number of articles and videos about the Vortex™ range of pergolas.
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