Strata living in Sydney comes with the responsibility to adhere to a set of legally binding rules—strata by-laws. These by-laws govern the behaviour of residents and owners within strata schemes to ensure harmony, safety, and smooth operations of common property. Breaching strata by-laws in Sydney can lead to fines, disputes, and legal consequences. In this guide, we outline the most common strata by-laws violations and provide actionable strategies to help you avoid them.
Illegal Renovations and Alterations
Why It’s a Violation
Undertaking renovations without proper approvals is one of the most common breaches of strata by-laws in Sydney. Major alterations, particularly those impacting structural elements or common property (e.g., balconies, external walls, waterproofing), often require both approval from the owners corporation and compliance with relevant legislation.
How to Avoid It
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Always submit a detailed renovation proposal for approval before commencing work.
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Engage licensed tradespeople with insurance and experience in strata properties.
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Understand the distinction between minor cosmetic work and major alterations.
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Review your building’s strata by laws Sydney documentation to determine what changes require consent.
Excessive Noise and Disturbance
Why It’s a Violation
Noise complaints are a leading cause of tension in strata communities. Loud music, barking dogs, or late-night parties can violate by-laws that protect residents’ right to quiet enjoyment of their homes.
How to Avoid It
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Keep volume levels within reason, especially during designated quiet hours (often between 10pm–8am).
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Inform neighbours in advance if you plan to host events.
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Address barking dog issues promptly with training or professional help.
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Install soft furnishings or rugs to reduce noise transmission in apartments with hard floors.
Unauthorised Use of Common Property
Why It’s a Violation
Common property, including hallways, stairwells, lobbies, gardens, and shared facilities, must not be misused or obstructed. Leaving personal items such as bikes, furniture, or prams in these areas is a common violation.
How to Avoid It
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Store all personal belongings within your own lot or designated storage areas.
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Understand what is and isn’t common property by reviewing your strata plan and by-laws.
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If you need to temporarily use a common area (e.g., during moving), request formal permission from the strata committee.
Pet Ownership Without Approval
Why It’s a Violation
While recent changes to NSW legislation have made it more difficult for strata schemes to blanket-ban pets, many buildings still require pet owners to seek approval. Some may restrict the type or number of animals allowed.
How to Avoid It
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Submit a written application to the owners corporation detailing your pet’s breed, size, temperament, and vaccination records.
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Ensure your pet is well-behaved and does not disturb neighbours.
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Comply with cleaning and noise control responsibilities.
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Familiarise yourself with strata by laws Sydney regulations regarding pets in strata schemes.
Parking in Unauthorised Spaces
Why It’s a Violation
Parking in visitor bays, fire zones, or other residents’ spaces is a regular cause of disputes in strata schemes. Parking misuse can result in warnings, fines, or towing.
How to Avoid It
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Park only in your designated lot or seek permission to use another space.
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Inform visitors of appropriate parking rules upon arrival.
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Avoid double-parking or obstructing access ways.
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Contact your strata committee for clarification if unsure about parking rules.
Compliance Tips for Strata Residents in Sydney
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Read Your By-Laws: All strata residents should be issued a copy of the strata by laws Sydney schemes enforce. Familiarity is key to compliance.
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Communicate Proactively: Open communication with the strata committee helps prevent conflicts.
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Attend AGMs: Participate in annual general meetings to stay informed and vote on rule changes.
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Use the Correct Channels: Always submit applications and complaints in writing for transparency and tracking.
Consequences of Breaching Strata By-Laws
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Formal notices from the strata committee
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Mediation or tribunal hearings at NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT)
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Fines of up to $1,100 for breaches under the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015
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Ongoing tension and disharmony within the community
Final Thoughts
Understanding and adhering to strata by laws Sydney schemes implement is essential for peaceful, lawful, and neighbourly strata living. By respecting the shared environment and following the right procedures, residents can avoid unnecessary fines and disputes—creating a more harmonious strata community for all.
