Prescribed TIDAL WORKS STRUCTURES
Waterway structures such as pontoons, jetties, boat ramps, decks, and revetment walls are considered assessable works under State and local legislation, meaning you need to obtain a Development Permit to lawfully construct or install your desired structure on the Gold Coast.
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Because these structures extend into or over tidal waters, tidal works approvals can be complex — often requiring assessment against at least four separate legislative instruments, including:
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Planning Act 2016
Planning Regulation 2017
Coastal Protection and Management Act 1995
Coastal Protection and Management Regulation 2017
Each of these frameworks must be complied with for environmental protection, design, and lawful development within tidal areas.
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At GC Tidal, we specialise in helping Gold Coast waterfront property owners understand these requirements and navigate the tidal works approval process with clarity and confidence.
PONTOONS
A floating platform secured by piles or cables, providing mooring for vessels. On the Gold Coast, pontoons are common along canal-front properties and require a Prescribed Tidal Works Development Permit to ensure compliance with the relevant planning legislation and assessment benchmarks.
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Looking to install a new pontoon or upgrade an existing one? GC Tidal can guide you through the entire approval process — from understanding local requirements to coordinating with council. Get in touch today to discuss your project.
jettys
A fixed or semi-fixed structure extending over the water, typically supported by piles. Jetties provide access to deeper water for boating and maintenance activities and must be designed to satisfy the relevant planning legislation and assessment benchmarks
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Thinking about building a jetty on your waterfront property? We can help you navigate the approvals process, assess feasibility, and connect you with trusted local contractors.
boat ramps
A sloped surface, usually made of concrete, that provides direct access for launching and retrieving vessels. Private boat ramps on the Gold Coast require assessment to ensure they comply with the relevant planning legislation and assessment benchmarks and do not cause erosion, obstruct navigation, or impact adjoining properties.
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Planning to add a private boat ramp? GC Tidal provides expert advice on design suitability and the development application process to ensure your project meets Gold Coast City Council standards. Contact us to learn more.
prescribed decks
A deck built over tidal land or water, often used to extend outdoor living areas toward the waterfront. These structures are classed as prescribed tidal works structures and are subject to approval to ensure compliance with the relevant planning legislation and assessment benchmarks
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Considering a deck that extends over tidal land or water? We’ll help you understand approval requirements and manage the application process smoothly. Speak with GC Tidal for clear, practical advice.
revetment walls
A retaining structure built along the water’s edge to stabilise and protect the land from erosion. On the Gold Coast, revetment walls must comply with the relevant planning legislation and assessment benchmarks and are crucial for maintaining the stability of canal systems.
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Need to construct or repair a revetment wall? GC Tidal can assist in assessing compliance, preparing your application, and liaising with council. Get in touch to see how we can support your project.