Structural landscaping
Structural landscaping is external landscape work involving constructed features like retaining walls, paving, decks, and pergolas. Licensing required in most states.
Ask Chalkline about this →Structural landscaping is the construction of external landscape features and non-habitable structures, including retaining walls, paving, driveways, decking, pergolas, fencing, and water features. The term carries a specific regulatory meaning in NSW, where it is defined in Schedule 4 of the Home Building Regulation 2014 and triggers the contractor licensing requirement for work valued over $5,000 (verified 2026-05-10).
Structural landscaping is distinguished from soft landscaping (turf laying, planting, mulching, and above-ground irrigation), which does not require a licence in NSW or VIC. QLD uses the equivalent term under the QBCC Structural Landscaping trade licence. Any builder or landscaper carrying out structural landscaping work must hold the relevant state licence; unlicensed work attracts penalties of up to $22,000 for individuals in NSW.
Also known as: hard landscaping (informal, broader term).
Category: Licensing / trade scope.
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Last updated: 2026-05-10. Verified: 2026-05-10.