Landscaping FAQs for Brisbane

Not every landscaping project needs approval, but retaining walls, pools, pool fencing, decks, sheds, major excavation and work affected by planning overlays may require it. A retaining wall may avoid building approval only when it meets specific height, loading, location and pool fencing conditions. Check the property through Brisbane City Plan and speak with a building certifier before structural work begins.

Retaining walls are not treated as dividing fences under Queensland law. Responsibility usually rests with the property that benefits from the wall or the owner of the land where it is located. Confirm the boundary and discuss the work with your neighbour before construction begins. Retaining wall disputes can become complex, so independent legal advice may be necessary when ownership or responsibility is unclear.

Drainage should be planned before paving, turf, garden beds or retaining walls are installed. The design should account for finished levels, surface falls, existing stormwater, subsoil drainage behind walls, irrigation, and where runoff will travel during heavy rain. Resolving these details early reduces the risk of ponding, erosion, damaged planting and water being redirected toward buildings or neighbouring properties.

A landscaping quote should clearly identify the scope, materials, quantities, site preparation, excavation, spoil removal, drainage, labour, approvals, exclusions, estimated schedule, payment stages and warranty information. It should also explain how variations and unexpected site conditions will be handled.

Yes, a deposit is normal where materials, labour and scheduling must be secured. For work that falls within regulated domestic building work, Queensland limits the maximum deposit according to the contract value. The current limits are 20 percent up to $3,300, 10 percent from $3,301 to $19,999, and 5 percent for contracts worth $20,000 or more. Confirm the current rules with the QBCC.

There is no single plant list that suits every Brisbane garden. Plant selection should reflect soil type, drainage, sunlight, available space, mature size and the level of horticultural care you want. Brisbane City Council identifies four main local soil groups and recommends native plants suited to Brisbane’s subtropical climate. Suitable native and tropical plants can support lower-maintenance landscaping when matched properly to the site.

The pool and surrounding landscape should be designed together. Excavation, the pool structure, retaining walls, drainage and underground services are usually completed before paving, decks, permanent fencing, irrigation, planting and turf. Planning the full space early prevents conflicts between finished levels, access, drainage and pool fencing. A compliant pool barrier must be in place before the pool is filled beyond the depth required by Queensland rules.