Whether you’re replacing a carport, adding a workshop bay, or designing a custom Colorbond garage in Perth, getting the right single garage dimensions (and double garage size) saves headaches and money. Below, we outline industry-standard measurements, council and compliance essentials, and practical design tips drawn from current Australian standards and 2025 market insights.
What Are Standard Single Garage Dimensions in Australia?
Across major Australian shed suppliers, a “standard” one car garage size typically falls within these internal measurements:
- Single garage width: 3.0 m to 3.6 m (3.0 m is common; 3.3–3.6 m is more comfortable for doors and mirrors)
- Garage length: 5.4 m to 6.0 m (5.8–6.0 m suits larger utes/SUVs and adds storage at the nose)
- Eave height (wall height): 2.4 m to 3.0 m (2.7 m is a sweet spot for 4WDs and roof racks)
- Single car garage door width: 2400–3000 mm (2700–3000 mm recommended for wider vehicles)
- Door height: 2100–2400 mm (choose 2400 mm if you have a lifted 4WD or roof racks)
For tight urban blocks, a compact single car garage size of 3.0 m (W) x 5.4 m (L) works. For everyday comfort, aim for 3.3–3.6 m (W) x 6.0 m (L).
Double Garage Size: How Wide Is a Double Garage?
The standard double garage size in Australia is often quoted as 6.0 m (W) x 6.0 m (L). That said, modern vehicles push these limits. Consider:
- Double garage width: 5.5–6.6 m. The standard double garage width is 6.0 m; 6.2–6.6 m improves door clearance.
- Double garage length: 6.0–7.0 m. 6.5–7.0 m is ideal if you want a workbench or bikes at the front.
- Doors: One wide door (e.g., 4800–5200 mm) or two singles (2400–3000 mm each). Sectional doors can offer better sealing and headroom than roller doors.
If you park two larger vehicles (e.g., Ford Ranger at ~5.37 m and Toyota Prado at ~4.84 m), a 6.2–6.6 m (W) x 6.5–7.0 m (L) double garage dimensions will feel far more practical than a tight 6×6.
Quick Answers for Searchers
- Dimensions of a standard garage (single): ~3.0–3.6 m (W) x 5.4–6.0 m (L)
- Standard 2 car garage size in meters: commonly 6.0 m x 6.0 m (go wider/longer for SUVs/utes)
- How big is a double garage? 6.0 m x 6.0 m is typical; 6.2–6.6 m wide and 6.5–7.0 m long is comfortable
- 1 car garage dimensions: 3.0–3.6 m x 5.4–6.0 m
Garage Length, Width and Clearance for Australian Vehicles
Today’s popular vehicles are bigger. Allow realistic clearances:
- Utes/SUVs: Hilux ~5.33 m L, Ranger ~5.37 m L, LandCruiser 300 ~4.97 m L (barwork can add length/height)
- Side clearance: 300–400 mm each side to comfortably open doors
- Front storage: 600–900 mm for shelves/bench without hitting the bumper
- Door height: 2400 mm if you use roof racks, surf skis, or a lift kit
Compliance: Australian Standards, Wind Ratings and Council Approvals
Garages are typically classified as NCC Class 10a buildings and must be engineered to Australian Standards. Key references include AS/NZS 1170.2 (Wind Actions), AS/NZS 4600 (Cold-formed steel), AS 4100 (Steel structures), and AS 2870 (Residential slabs and footings). Terrain category, wind region, and site exposure all affect your frame, hold-downs, and cladding fasteners. For door types, wind-locks and sealing, see our garage with door guide before you lock in widths and headroom.
Added 2024 WA wind-rating compliance notes For WA, many metro and southwest sites are Region A (non-cyclonic), while north and coastal Pilbara/Kimberley can be Region C/D. Ensure your council-approved shed in WA includes site-specific wind speed, terrain category, and shielding per AS/NZS 1170.2.
How to Get Council Approval for Your Custom Shed in WA
- Confirm planning requirements: Setbacks, height limits, and coverage with your local council (R-Codes may apply).
- Engineering and drawings: Obtain certified structural drawings and site plan (including slab edge beams per soil class).
- Bushfire and coastal: If applicable, include BAL report (AS 3959) and corrosion detail for marine zones.
- Lodge building permit: Provide forms, owner/builder or builder details, and fees. Many suppliers offer a permit pack.
- Inspections: Slab/footings and final may be required. Keep certificates of compliance on file.
Cyclone-Rated Sheds for QLD
For cyclone-rated sheds in QLD (Regions C/D), engineering may include increased frame sections, closer purlin spacings, cyclone washers, high-capacity hold-downs, and wind-locked roller doors. Door choice is critical: specify wind-rated doors with tested windlocks and correct spans.
What Are the Best Shed Materials for Perth’s Climate?
Hot summers and coastal air mean you need the right cladding and insulation. Here’s a practical Colorbond vs Zincalume comparison for WA and coastal Australia.
Colorbond vs Zincalume — Which Is Better for WA Conditions?
| Feature | Colorbond Steel | Zincalume Steel |
|---|---|---|
| Corrosion performance (coastal) | Excellent with proper grade; better near coast when away from surf spray | Very good inland; may weather faster in marine zones |
| Colour range | Extensive Colorbond palette (great for matching roofs/fences) | Limited (silvery metallic finish) |
| Heat reflectance | Lighter colours reflect more heat; Thermatech options help reduce heat load | Highly reflective when new; can dull over time |
| Maintenance | Low; periodic washdown, especially near coast | Low; rinse salt regularly in marine environments |
| Price | Typically higher | Usually more affordable |
For coastal or hot regions (e.g., steel sheds Perth), Colorbond in a light shade with roof insulation is a strong, durable choice. Inland or rural (rural sheds NSW), Zincalume remains a cost-effective option.
Design Choices That Change Your Garage Size
- Eave height: 2.7–3.0 m helps tall vehicles and mezzanine storage.
- Roof form: Skillion maximises internal height; gable improves ventilation and traditional look.
- Doors: Sectional doors need more backspace; roller doors need headroom. Allow 200–450 mm for tracks/motors.
- Extra bay or lean-to: Add a 3.0 m bay for tools or farm machinery storage; consider affordable carports for Australian homes as a drive-through cover.
- Workshop fit-out: Plan for 15–20 A GPOs, lighting, and a slab thickening under hoists.
- Plan girts and clearances for garage wall storage so shelves and cabinets don’t squeeze aisles or door travel.
Real Build Examples (Australian Context)
Case Study 1 — Custom-Built Double Garage in Perth
Baldivis, WA: 6.2 m (W) x 7.0 m (L) x 2.7 m (H) with a 5.0 m sectional door, Colorbond Surfmist walls/roof, roof blanket + whirlybirds, Region A wind rating, council-approved with side setback variation. Outcome: easy parking for a Prado and a Ranger plus a 900 mm bench.
Case Study 2 — Rural NSW Shed with Integrated Carport
Dubbo, NSW: Single garage 3.6 m x 6.6 m plus 3.0 m skillion carport for a second ute. Zincalume cladding, heavy-duty hold-downs for open terrain (Region A, high exposure), DIY shed kit with local concreter. Result: flexible storage and shaded wash-down bay.
5-Step Buying Guide for Custom Sheds in Australia
- Measure vehicles + storage: Note vehicle lengths, roof-rack heights, door swing, and space for benches/shelves.
- Choose size + height: Single: 3.3–3.6 x 6.0 m. Double: 6.2–6.6 x 6.5–7.0 m. Eave height 2.7–3.0 m for tall vehicles.
- Select materials: Colorbond near coast/hot zones; Zincalume inland. Add insulation and ventilation.
- Engineer for wind: Confirm wind region and terrain; specify wind-rated sheds for cyclonic areas if needed.
- Get approvals + build: Submit certified drawings, order a DIY shed kit or engage a builder, then pour slab and erect.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a comfortable single car garage size?
We recommend 3.3–3.6 m wide x 6.0 m long with a 2.7 m eave height and a 2700–3000 mm wide door.
What are standard double garage dimensions?
Standard double garage dimensions are 6.0 m x 6.0 m. If you own larger vehicles, go 6.2–6.6 m wide and 6.5–7.0 m long.
Will a double garage fit two large SUVs?
Yes, but 6.0 x 6.0 m is tight. Increase width to 6.2–6.6 m and length to 6.5–7.0 m for door clearance and storage.
How thick should my garage slab be?
Commonly 100 mm with mesh on compacted base, thickened edges and door rebates as per engineering and AS 2870. Soil class matters.
Do I need cyclone rating in North QLD?
Yes. Sites in Regions C/D require cyclone-rated sheds QLD with upgraded framing, fixings, and wind-locked doors per AS/NZS 1170.2.
Is DIY or custom-built better?
DIY shed kits save labour if you’re handy and have time. Custom-built is faster, includes warranties, and streamlines approvals—popular for council-approved sheds WA and custom carports Melbourne.
Key Specs and Jargon at a Glance
- Single car garage measurements: 3.0–3.6 m x 5.4–6.0 m
- 2 car garage dimensions: 6.0–6.6 m x 6.0–7.0 m
- Single car garage width: 3.0–3.6 m
- Double garage width (Australia): 6.0 m is standard; 6.2–6.6 m is better
- Door heights: 2.1–2.4 m; choose 2.4 m for 4WDs
Citations and Useful Resources
- Bureau of Meteorology wind and cyclone info — check regional wind considerations
- Housing Industry Association — guidance on residential building and permits
- Master Builders Australia — builder selection and contracts
- Australian Steel Institute — steel product and standard references
- Energy.gov.au — insulation and heat management in buildings
- CSIRO — materials, corrosion and building research
Industry context: 2025 updates from national bodies note ongoing variability in steel pricing and strong demand for outdoor structures (see “2025 Australian Steel Market Outlook” and “2025 HIA Outdoor Structures and Home Improvement Report”). Design for flexibility and confirm lead times early.
Why Choose a Custom, Council-Approved Steel Garage?
- Engineered to AS/NZS standards for your exact wind region
- Tailored double garage measurements for big vehicles, boats, or farm machinery storage
- Choice of Colorbond colours, insulation, and security upgrades
- Local approvals handled, faster build, single point of warranty
Ready to size and price your build? Our team designs and installs custom Colorbond garages Perth homeowners trust—from compact one car garage dimensions to standard double garage dimensions with workshop bays. Ask for a site-specific wind assessment and council pack today.