Caravan Shelter Kits Australia: Shade Sheds, Prices & Council Approval Guide 2025
What size caravan shelter do you need?
Measure your caravan including A-frame, awning, air-con units, and any roof racks. Add clearances for safe parking and access.
- Typical single-bay caravan shade shed: 9–12 m long x 3.6–4.2 m wide x 3.2–3.6 m eave height.
- For motorhomes/fifth-wheelers: consider 4.5–5.0 m eave height and 12–15 m length.
- Allow 300–600 mm clearance around the highest point for ventilation and to avoid roof rub.
- Drive-through convenience: add 1–2 m extra length if you want clear egress without reversing.
What are the best shed materials for Perth’s climate?
Perth’s coastal air and summer heat demand high-spec coatings and smart design. Most quality caravan shelter kits are built from cold-formed galvanised steel frames with either Colorbond or Zincalume sheeting.
Colorbond vs Zincalume — Which is better for WA conditions?
| Feature | Colorbond (including Ultra/Weathering Steel) | Zincalume |
|---|---|---|
| Coating & corrosion | Polymer paint over metallic coating; Ultra grade recommended within 200–400 m of surf | Al-Zn coating; strong baseline corrosion resistance in inland areas |
| Heat resistance | Thermatech solar reflectance colours help reduce heat gain | Reflective but can warm faster under direct sun vs light Colorbond colours |
| Aesthetics | Large Colorbond palette aligns with modern homes | Industrial silver-grey; paint later if needed |
| Cost | Higher upfront (5–12% more than Zincalume) | Budget-friendly for rural or low-visibility installs |
| Best for Perth | Coastal suburbs and metro heat—choose Colorbond Ultra near the coast | Interior WA (e.g., Wheatbelt) with low marine exposure |
Added 2024 WA wind-rating compliance notes: In coastal Perth (Region A, terrain categories TC2–TC3), most caravan shade sheds must be engineered to AS/NZS 1170 for wind actions. For exposed ocean-front or hilltops, confirm site wind speed and fixings per engineer’s certification.
Are caravan shelter kits council-approved in your state?
Approvals differ by LGA. Many “open” shade sheds still need a building permit and site plan. Always confirm before ordering.
How to get council approval for your custom shed in WA
- Obtain site plan with setbacks and underground services marked (dial before you dig).
- Supplier provides engineered drawings to AS/NZS 1170, AS/NZS 4600, and footing details.
- Lodge BA2/BA3 (or local equivalent) with energy and bushfire notes if requested.
- Allow 10–25 business days for assessment depending on council.
Council-approved sheds WA are typically straightforward when drawings show wind classification, footing sizes, and tie-down schedules.
QLD cyclone regions
North QLD and some coastal areas are Wind Regions C or D. Specify cyclone-rated sheds QLD with upgraded purlins, hold-downs, and roof fasteners. Ask for a “Region C/D kit” with N3–N5 or C/Cyclonic certification as applicable.
NSW & VIC
Typically Region A (non-cyclonic) but check snow loads in alpine areas (e.g., VIC High Country). Your engineer will apply AS/NZS 1170.3 for snow where relevant.
How much do caravan shade sheds cost in Australia (2025)?
- Entry DIY portable shade shelters: $1,600–$3,500 (temporary, fabric or light galvanised tube).
- Standard steel caravan shade shed kits (single bay): $3,800–$8,500 depending on size/height.
- Premium Colorbond skillion/gable with higher wind rating: $7,500–$14,000.
- Extra-wide/double-bay or enclosed caravan storage shed: $12,000–$28,000+.
Shade sheds QLD prices: cyclone-rated upgrades add $800–$2,500 for heavier frames, brackets, and screw patterns.
Allow $1,200–$4,000 for a concrete slab or pier footings (site dependent). Regional delivery may add $200–$900.
Flat roof, skillion, or gable — what’s best for caravans?
- Skillion (single fall): simple, cost-effective, great water run-off.
- Gable: more headroom in centre; classic look that suits residential streetscapes.
- Flat: cheapest but check water ponding and wind uplift; often needs heavier purlins.
DIY kit or custom-built?
| Option | Pros | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| DIY shed kits | Lowest cost; weekend install with two helpers; pre-punched parts | Requires tools and safe working height gear; no warranty on poor install |
| Custom-built by a caravan storage shed builder | Turnkey; council handled; pro slab/footings; strongest warranties | Higher price; lead time 3–8 weeks depending on region |
In metro WA, a custom Colorbond garages Perth specialist can integrate your caravan bay with a workshop, lean-to, or boat shelter for a cohesive street look.
Do you need cyclone or snow ratings?
- QLD coastal north, NT, and WA north-west: specify cyclonic kits (Region C/D) with certified hold-downs and bracketry.
- NSW/VIC alpine: verify snow actions (AS/NZS 1170.3) and minimum roof pitch to avoid snow build-up.
- All regions: confirm terrain category, shielding, and topography with your supplier’s engineer.
Portable and temporary caravan shelters: what to know
Portable shade shelters are fast and affordable for short-term cover or rentals. Many councils classify them as temporary, but you may still need permission if visible from the street or near boundaries.
- Choose heavy-duty polyester/PVC with UV resistance and galvanised frames.
- Anchor with screw piles, ballast, or chem-set anchors; check manufacturer wind limits.
- Plan to remove or secure during severe weather warnings (BOM alerts).
Used shade sheds for sale — buyer’s checklist
- Inspect for corrosion at base plates and along sheeting laps.
- Ask for original engineering and wind rating; many second-hand units lack paperwork.
- Measure twice: used bays often have non-standard spans or cut posts.
- Budget new fasteners, footings, and extra purlins to meet current codes.
Caravan shelter ideas that add value
- Extra eave height with adjustable knee braces for future-vehicle flexibility.
- Insulated roof panels to reduce radiant heat and condensation.
- One enclosed “services bay” for tools, 15A GPO, solar charger, and wash-down gear.
- Matching Colorbond fascia and gutters to blend with your home.
- Drive-through double openings for caravans and boat trailers.
Pro Tip: Did you know using insulated roof panels can reduce internal shed temperatures by up to 10°C in summer? It also quietens rain noise.
Real build examples (2024–2025)
Sunshine Coast, QLD — Cyclone-ready shade shed
- Size: 10 m x 4.0 m x 3.6 m eave, skillion Colorbond Surfmist
- Spec: Region C kit, upgraded hold-down brackets, square hollow section posts
- Cost: $9,800 installed (ex slab); council fast-tracked with engineer’s certificate
Wheatbelt, WA — Caravan + farm machinery storage
- Size: 12 m x 4.5 m x 4.0 m eave with gable roof
- Spec: Zincalume roof, Colorbond walls to one side as windbreak, N2 wind rating
- Cost: $13,900 kit + $3,100 piers; owner-build over two weekends
5-Step Buying Guide for Custom Sheds in Australia
- Define use-case: caravan height, awning clearance, future vehicles.
- Pick materials: Colorbond for coastal/metro; Zincalume inland; consider insulated panels.
- Confirm site classification: wind region, terrain category, soil class for footings.
- Get engineered drawings: AS/NZS 1170, AS/NZS 4600 compliance and tie-down schedule.
- Plan install: slab vs piers, power/water points, and stormwater connection.
Key specs to request from your supplier
- Wind rating (N2–N5 or C-class) with engineer’s sign-off.
- Base plate and anchor design, or pier sizes for your soil class.
- Roof pitch, purlin spacing, and sheet screw patterns.
- Warranty terms: steel coating, structural frame, and workmanship.
- Delivery ETA and offloading requirements on site.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a slab for a caravan shelter?
No. Many shade sheds use pier footings with base plates and chem-set anchors. Slabs are great for cleanliness and jacks but cost more.
Are portable shade shelters compliant?
They’re classed as temporary structures. Check your council rules and manufacturer’s wind ratings. They’re not a substitute for cyclone-rated steel in Region C/D.
What about guttering and stormwater?
Fit gutters and downpipes to keep water off driveways and neighbouring lots. Many councils require lawful point of discharge.
Can I enclose the sides later?
Yes. Ask for frames that support future side sheeting or a lean-to. Re-approval may be needed when enclosing.
Where we build and supply
We supply and install Australia-wide with local focus on steel sheds Perth, custom carports Melbourne, rural sheds NSW, cyclone-rated sheds QLD, and farm machinery storage across SA and TAS. We also design custom caravan shade sheds, shelter sheds, and temporary caravan shelter solutions for coastal and inland projects.
Technical references and local context
- Standards: AS/NZS 1170 (wind and snow actions), AS/NZS 4600 (cold-formed steel), AS 4100 (steel structures).
- Climate: check local severe weather alerts via the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM warnings).
- Material performance: see Australian Steel Institute technical notes (Australian Steel Institute).
- Home improvements market: HIA Outdoor Structures insights 2024 (HIA).
- Energy and heat: passive cooling guidance (Energy.gov.au).