Structural landscaping in NSW is work involved in constructing external landscape features and non-habitable structures, including retaining walls, paving and decks. The NSW Government’s structural landscaping guidance, dated 23 June 2026, says a contractor licence is required to carry out, advertise or contract for building or trade work valued at more than $5,000 in labour and materials, including GST, and directs readers to Schedule 4 of the Home Building Regulation 2014 for the full scope; figures checked 1 October 2026.
What examples count as structural landscaping?
The NSW Government’s examples can be grouped as follows for easier comparison. This practical grouping does not replace the legal definition in Schedule 4.
| Area | Examples in the NSW Government guidance |
|---|---|
| Walls | Retaining walls of any material that do not form part of a habitable building |
| Paving and access | Fencing, driveways, paths and other paving of any material |
| Structures and water features | Cabanas, pergolas, decks and non-habitable shelters; ornamental ponds, water features and other structural ornamentation requiring development approval; work on concrete tennis courts and the like |
These are examples rather than an exhaustive list. A structural landscaping contract may also include specialist work needed to complete the overall job.
When does licensing apply in NSW?
The NSW Government states that a licence or certificate is required to do structural landscaping work. It also explains when a contractor licence is required:
| Situation | NSW Government requirement |
|---|---|
| Work under a residential building contract | A licence is required where the work is carried out under a contract for residential building work |
| Work valued above the threshold | A contractor licence is required to carry out, advertise or contract for building or trade work valued at more than $5,000 in labour and materials, including GST |
| Type of work | Structural landscaping is in the other building category of building and trade work |
Under the Home Building Act 1989, the NSW Government says unlicensed work can lead to a $22,000 fine for an individual or a $110,000 fine for a company.
Which licence or certificate may apply?
The available type depends on whether the applicant wants to contract for the work, supervise it, perform it or combine those roles. The NSW Government lists:
- Individual contractor licence
- Endorsed contractor licence
- Company or partnership contractor licence
- Qualified supervisor certificate
An appropriate endorsed contractor licence holder or qualified supervisor certificate holder in the relevant category can subcontract to do structural landscaping work.
What must an applicant have before applying?
Applicants need the required qualifications and experience before applying. To obtain a licence or certificate, they must complete one of the qualifications listed on the NSW Government page.
Other requirements include:
- Every individual applicant must submit a National Police Check no more than 4 months old at application.
- Individual licence and certificate applicants must have a valid National Police Check certificate.
- A current apprentice or trainee cannot be issued with a licence or certificate.
- After completing an apprenticeship or traineeship, a person intending to do or contract for building or trade work must apply for a contractor licence.
Some listed qualifications and units may no longer be available. The NSW Government recommends confirming availability with a registered training organisation and checking the National Training Register before commencing training or recognition of prior learning.
The Your Career website can be searched by course code or name to find organisations delivering nationally recognised training.
How can an application or renewal start?
A licence or certificate application can be started through Service NSW. Applicants can apply for a 1, 3 or 5 year licence or certificate.
Existing licence and certificate holders can renew using the details on their renewal form or through Service NSW.
The NSW Government warns that providing false or misleading information is a serious offence. A licence obtained using false or misleading information may be cancelled, and the applicant may face criminal prosecution.
This is general information, not financial or legal advice. Check the current NSW Government licensing page for regulator requirements and your policy’s PDS for insurance terms.
Sources
FAQ
Are retaining walls, decks and paving included?
Yes. The NSW Government lists retaining walls, decks and paving among its examples. The retaining-wall example applies to walls of any material that do not form part of a habitable building, while the paving example covers driveways, paths and other paving of any material.
Does the NSW value threshold include GST?
Yes. The NSW Government sets the contractor-licence threshold at more than $5,000 in labour and materials, including GST.
Can a certificate holder subcontract structural landscaping work?
A qualified supervisor certificate holder can subcontract to do the work only if the certificate is appropriate for the relevant category. The NSW Government also identifies an appropriate endorsed contractor licence as a relevant pathway.
Where is the full legal definition?
The NSW Government directs readers to Schedule 4 of the Home Building Regulation 2014 for the definition of structural landscaping work and its full scope.
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