Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Earthship?
What Is an Earthship?
An Earthship is a highly sustainable home designed to provide comfortable, self-sufficient living with minimal environmental impact.
Earthships are designed to collect their own water, generate their own renewable energy, treat their own wastewater, and maintain comfortable indoor temperatures with little or no conventional heating or cooling.
The six key principles of Earthship design are:
• Natural and recycled materials
• Passive solar heating and cooling
• Renewable energy
• Rainwater harvesting
• Wastewater recycling
• Food production
As a result, Earthships can offer:
• Very low or zero electricity bills
• Very low or zero water and sewerage bills
• Comfortable indoor temperatures year-round with minimal heating and cooling
• Reduced environmental impact and carbon emissions
• Greater resilience during power outages, droughts, and other disruptions
• Opportunities for owner-builders to participate in the construction process
Earthships are inherently energy and water efficient. Their passive solar design, thermal mass, insulation, natural ventilation, and earth-sheltered construction work together to reduce the need for heating and cooling. This means that relatively modest solar and battery systems can often meet a household's energy needs.
Most Earthships also include indoor growing spaces where food can be produced year-round. These spaces can be irrigated using recycled greywater from showers, hand basins, and washing machines, helping to maximise the value of every drop of water.
Earthships were invented in the 1970s by architect Michael Reynolds and have since been built in many countries around the world. Thousands of Earthships now exist globally, with particularly large concentrations in North America. official Earthship Biotecture website
One of the best-known Earthship communities is The Greater World near Taos New Mexico USA where residents live largely off-grid using the principles of Earthship design.
Earthship Eco Homes has adapted these concepts to Australian climates, building regulations, and construction practices to create Earthships that are suitable for Australian conditions.
An Earthship is a highly sustainable home designed to provide comfortable, self-sufficient living with minimal environmental impact.
Earthships are designed to collect their own water, generate their own renewable energy, treat their own wastewater, and maintain comfortable indoor temperatures with little or no conventional heating or cooling.
The six key principles of Earthship design are:
• Natural and recycled materials
• Passive solar heating and cooling
• Renewable energy
• Rainwater harvesting
• Wastewater recycling
• Food production
As a result, Earthships can offer:
• Very low or zero electricity bills
• Very low or zero water and sewerage bills
• Comfortable indoor temperatures year-round with minimal heating and cooling
• Reduced environmental impact and carbon emissions
• Greater resilience during power outages, droughts, and other disruptions
• Opportunities for owner-builders to participate in the construction process
Earthships are inherently energy and water efficient. Their passive solar design, thermal mass, insulation, natural ventilation, and earth-sheltered construction work together to reduce the need for heating and cooling. This means that relatively modest solar and battery systems can often meet a household's energy needs.
Most Earthships also include indoor growing spaces where food can be produced year-round. These spaces can be irrigated using recycled greywater from showers, hand basins, and washing machines, helping to maximise the value of every drop of water.
Earthships were invented in the 1970s by architect Michael Reynolds and have since been built in many countries around the world. Thousands of Earthships now exist globally, with particularly large concentrations in North America. official Earthship Biotecture website
One of the best-known Earthship communities is The Greater World near Taos New Mexico USA where residents live largely off-grid using the principles of Earthship design.
Earthship Eco Homes has adapted these concepts to Australian climates, building regulations, and construction practices to create Earthships that are suitable for Australian conditions.
Sunroom at Earthship Ironbank, South Australia, greywater garden with banana palms on north side of building
what are the benefits of earthships?
What Are the Benefits of an Earthship?
Earthships offer a unique combination of environmental, financial, lifestyle, and resilience benefits. While every owner is different, people are often attracted to Earthships for one or more of the following reasons:
• Reduce or eliminate electricity, water, and sewerage bills
• Generate your own renewable energy and harvest your own water
• Take greater control over where your energy comes from and where your wastewater goes
• Reduce exposure to rising utility prices and service disruptions
• Support renewable energy technologies and reduce dependence on fossil fuels
• Lower your environmental footprint through reduced energy and water consumption
• Minimise the use of virgin materials by incorporating recycled and natural materials
• Help address Australia's waste tyre problem by upcycling tyres into durable building materials
• Participate in the construction of your own home and involve friends, family, and community members in the process
• Grow food at home using integrated food production systems and recycled water
• Recycle wastewater on site and make productive use of valuable resources that would otherwise be discarded
• Enjoy a naturally comfortable indoor environment with stable temperatures throughout the year
• Reduce the need for conventional heating and cooling through passive solar design and thermal mass
• Increase self-reliance and resilience in the face of power outages, droughts, and other disruptions
• Create a home that aligns with your environmental and social values
• Build a home designed to last for generations with relatively low maintenance requirements
• Benefit from a high level of resilience to natural hazards such as bushfires, storms, extreme temperatures, and, in some circumstances, flooding
Many Earthship owners find that the greatest benefit is not any single feature, but the way all of these systems work together. Earthships are designed as integrated systems that provide shelter, energy, water, food production, and wastewater recycling in a way that is both practical and environmentally responsible.
For many people, an Earthship is more than just a house. It is a way of living that promotes self-reliance, sustainability, resilience, and a closer connection with the natural world.
Earthships offer a unique combination of environmental, financial, lifestyle, and resilience benefits. While every owner is different, people are often attracted to Earthships for one or more of the following reasons:
• Reduce or eliminate electricity, water, and sewerage bills
• Generate your own renewable energy and harvest your own water
• Take greater control over where your energy comes from and where your wastewater goes
• Reduce exposure to rising utility prices and service disruptions
• Support renewable energy technologies and reduce dependence on fossil fuels
• Lower your environmental footprint through reduced energy and water consumption
• Minimise the use of virgin materials by incorporating recycled and natural materials
• Help address Australia's waste tyre problem by upcycling tyres into durable building materials
• Participate in the construction of your own home and involve friends, family, and community members in the process
• Grow food at home using integrated food production systems and recycled water
• Recycle wastewater on site and make productive use of valuable resources that would otherwise be discarded
• Enjoy a naturally comfortable indoor environment with stable temperatures throughout the year
• Reduce the need for conventional heating and cooling through passive solar design and thermal mass
• Increase self-reliance and resilience in the face of power outages, droughts, and other disruptions
• Create a home that aligns with your environmental and social values
• Build a home designed to last for generations with relatively low maintenance requirements
• Benefit from a high level of resilience to natural hazards such as bushfires, storms, extreme temperatures, and, in some circumstances, flooding
Many Earthship owners find that the greatest benefit is not any single feature, but the way all of these systems work together. Earthships are designed as integrated systems that provide shelter, energy, water, food production, and wastewater recycling in a way that is both practical and environmentally responsible.
For many people, an Earthship is more than just a house. It is a way of living that promotes self-reliance, sustainability, resilience, and a closer connection with the natural world.
what do i need to build an earthship?
What Do I Need to Build an Earthship?
In most cases, you will need to build an Earthship rather than buy one, as relatively few Earthships currently exist in Australia and they rarely come onto the market.
To build an Earthship you generally need four things:
• Money
• Land
• Approval
• A Builder (or Owner-Builder Permit)
Money
Like any home, an Earthship requires funding.
If you need a construction loan from a bank, you will typically need to engage a licensed builder under a building contract. Many lenders are reluctant to finance owner-builder projects because they are perceived as carrying greater risk.
If you have sufficient funds available and do not require a construction loan, you may choose to become an owner-builder. Many Earthship owners take this approach because it allows them to contribute their own labour and potentially reduce construction costs.
Land
You will need a suitable block of land.
While Earthships can be adapted to a wide range of sites, factors such as orientation, slope, bushfire risk, planning constraints, soil conditions, access, climate, and local regulations can all influence the design and cost of the project.
Because Earthships are designed to be self-sufficient, blocks without existing power, water, or sewerage connections can often be suitable and may sometimes be more affordable than conventional building sites.
Approval
Like any new home, an Earthship requires planning and building approvals.
This generally involves preparing site-specific plans and obtaining any required reports from consultants such as structural engineers, energy assessors, bushfire consultants, wastewater designers, surveyors, and other specialists.
Earthship Eco Homes can assist with coordinating this process and preparing the documentation required for approval.
Builder
You will need either a licensed builder or an Owner-Builder Permit, depending on how you choose to deliver the project.
If you are financing the project through a bank, a licensed builder will generally be required.
If you are self-funding the project, you may choose to become an owner-builder and take a more active role in the construction process. Many Earthship owners enjoy being directly involved in building their own home alongside friends, family, volunteers, and experienced tradespeople.
The most important thing is to have a competent and appropriately qualified team involved in the project to ensure the Earthship is safe, compliant, durable, and built to a high standard.
Fortunately, Earthship Eco Homes can help guide you through each step of the journey, from choosing suitable land through to design, approvals, and construction.
In most cases, you will need to build an Earthship rather than buy one, as relatively few Earthships currently exist in Australia and they rarely come onto the market.
To build an Earthship you generally need four things:
• Money
• Land
• Approval
• A Builder (or Owner-Builder Permit)
Money
Like any home, an Earthship requires funding.
If you need a construction loan from a bank, you will typically need to engage a licensed builder under a building contract. Many lenders are reluctant to finance owner-builder projects because they are perceived as carrying greater risk.
If you have sufficient funds available and do not require a construction loan, you may choose to become an owner-builder. Many Earthship owners take this approach because it allows them to contribute their own labour and potentially reduce construction costs.
Land
You will need a suitable block of land.
While Earthships can be adapted to a wide range of sites, factors such as orientation, slope, bushfire risk, planning constraints, soil conditions, access, climate, and local regulations can all influence the design and cost of the project.
Because Earthships are designed to be self-sufficient, blocks without existing power, water, or sewerage connections can often be suitable and may sometimes be more affordable than conventional building sites.
Approval
Like any new home, an Earthship requires planning and building approvals.
This generally involves preparing site-specific plans and obtaining any required reports from consultants such as structural engineers, energy assessors, bushfire consultants, wastewater designers, surveyors, and other specialists.
Earthship Eco Homes can assist with coordinating this process and preparing the documentation required for approval.
Builder
You will need either a licensed builder or an Owner-Builder Permit, depending on how you choose to deliver the project.
If you are financing the project through a bank, a licensed builder will generally be required.
If you are self-funding the project, you may choose to become an owner-builder and take a more active role in the construction process. Many Earthship owners enjoy being directly involved in building their own home alongside friends, family, volunteers, and experienced tradespeople.
The most important thing is to have a competent and appropriately qualified team involved in the project to ensure the Earthship is safe, compliant, durable, and built to a high standard.
Fortunately, Earthship Eco Homes can help guide you through each step of the journey, from choosing suitable land through to design, approvals, and construction.
What is the process for getting Earthship plans?
What Is the Process for Getting Earthship Plans?
The Earthship Eco Homes design process has been developed over many years and is intended to guide you from your initial ideas through to obtaining the approvals required to start construction.
The process generally consists of five stages:
1. Initial Consultation
We discuss your goals, budget, lifestyle, preferred level of self-sufficiency, and the type of Earthship you would like to build. This helps determine whether an existing Earthship design may suit your needs or whether a custom design is more appropriate.
2. Site Visit
Every Earthship is designed for a specific site. During the site visit we assess factors such as orientation, views, slope, access, vegetation, bushfire risk, soil conditions, climate, and local planning considerations.
3. Concept Design
A preliminary design is developed based on your requirements and the opportunities and constraints of the site. This stage allows the layout, appearance, performance, and cost implications of the design to be explored before detailed documentation begins.
4. Planning Approval Drawings
Once the concept design has been approved, we prepare the drawings and documentation required for Planning Consent (sometimes called Development Approval or Planning Approval, depending on the State or Territory).
These drawings are typically submitted to Council or a Town Planner for assessment.
5. Building Approval Drawings
After Planning Consent has been obtained, detailed construction drawings and supporting documentation are prepared for Building Approval (sometimes called Building Rules Consent, Building Permit, Construction Certificate, or Building Surveyor Approval, depending on the State or Territory).
These drawings are submitted to a private building surveyor, certifier, or relevant authority for assessment.
Working With Specialists
Earthship Eco Homes works with a network of experienced consultants including structural engineers, energy assessors, bushfire consultants, surveyors, wastewater designers, and other specialists as required.
Together, this team helps ensure that your Earthship complies with the relevant Australian Standards, the National Construction Code, and local planning requirements, giving your project the best possible chance of obtaining approval.
For more information about the design process, fees, and typical timeframes, please see the PLANS page.
The Earthship Eco Homes design process has been developed over many years and is intended to guide you from your initial ideas through to obtaining the approvals required to start construction.
The process generally consists of five stages:
1. Initial Consultation
We discuss your goals, budget, lifestyle, preferred level of self-sufficiency, and the type of Earthship you would like to build. This helps determine whether an existing Earthship design may suit your needs or whether a custom design is more appropriate.
2. Site Visit
Every Earthship is designed for a specific site. During the site visit we assess factors such as orientation, views, slope, access, vegetation, bushfire risk, soil conditions, climate, and local planning considerations.
3. Concept Design
A preliminary design is developed based on your requirements and the opportunities and constraints of the site. This stage allows the layout, appearance, performance, and cost implications of the design to be explored before detailed documentation begins.
4. Planning Approval Drawings
Once the concept design has been approved, we prepare the drawings and documentation required for Planning Consent (sometimes called Development Approval or Planning Approval, depending on the State or Territory).
These drawings are typically submitted to Council or a Town Planner for assessment.
5. Building Approval Drawings
After Planning Consent has been obtained, detailed construction drawings and supporting documentation are prepared for Building Approval (sometimes called Building Rules Consent, Building Permit, Construction Certificate, or Building Surveyor Approval, depending on the State or Territory).
These drawings are submitted to a private building surveyor, certifier, or relevant authority for assessment.
Working With Specialists
Earthship Eco Homes works with a network of experienced consultants including structural engineers, energy assessors, bushfire consultants, surveyors, wastewater designers, and other specialists as required.
Together, this team helps ensure that your Earthship complies with the relevant Australian Standards, the National Construction Code, and local planning requirements, giving your project the best possible chance of obtaining approval.
For more information about the design process, fees, and typical timeframes, please see the PLANS page.
can i buy off-the-shelf plans?
Can I Buy Off-the-Shelf Earthship Plans?
Yes, although some level of customisation will almost always be required.
Every site is different, and factors such as slope, soil conditions, bushfire risk, wind classification, earthquake loading, climate zone, local planning requirements, and site orientation can all influence the final design.
In the best-case scenario, a standard Earthship design may only require a new Site Plan and minor modifications to suit your block of land. This can result in significant savings compared to developing a completely custom design from scratch.
However, even when using a standard plan, the approval drawings must ultimately be prepared for your specific site. Councils, building surveyors, engineers, energy assessors, and other consultants need drawings and documentation that reflect the actual conditions of your land and comply with local regulations.
Earthship Eco Homes offers a range of standard Earthship designs that can be adapted to suit Australian sites and conditions. Standard plans can provide an excellent starting point while still allowing flexibility to accommodate your site, budget, and lifestyle requirements.
You may also find Earthship plans available from Earthship Biotecture in the USA and other providers around the world. However, it is important to understand that overseas plans are unlikely to comply with Australian building regulations without modification.
Advantages of Earthship Eco Homes plans include:
• Designed specifically for Australian conditions
• Drawn in metric units rather than imperial
• Use materials, products, and systems readily available in Australia
• Reference relevant Australian Standards
• Designed to comply with the National Construction Code (NCC)
• Optimised for Australian climate zones
• Support a local Australian business with experience obtaining Earthship approvals
If you have already purchased plans from Earthship Biotecture or another overseas supplier, Earthship Eco Homes may be able to assist with adapting and upgrading the plans to meet Australian codes, standards, and approval requirements.
Yes, although some level of customisation will almost always be required.
Every site is different, and factors such as slope, soil conditions, bushfire risk, wind classification, earthquake loading, climate zone, local planning requirements, and site orientation can all influence the final design.
In the best-case scenario, a standard Earthship design may only require a new Site Plan and minor modifications to suit your block of land. This can result in significant savings compared to developing a completely custom design from scratch.
However, even when using a standard plan, the approval drawings must ultimately be prepared for your specific site. Councils, building surveyors, engineers, energy assessors, and other consultants need drawings and documentation that reflect the actual conditions of your land and comply with local regulations.
Earthship Eco Homes offers a range of standard Earthship designs that can be adapted to suit Australian sites and conditions. Standard plans can provide an excellent starting point while still allowing flexibility to accommodate your site, budget, and lifestyle requirements.
You may also find Earthship plans available from Earthship Biotecture in the USA and other providers around the world. However, it is important to understand that overseas plans are unlikely to comply with Australian building regulations without modification.
Advantages of Earthship Eco Homes plans include:
• Designed specifically for Australian conditions
• Drawn in metric units rather than imperial
• Use materials, products, and systems readily available in Australia
• Reference relevant Australian Standards
• Designed to comply with the National Construction Code (NCC)
• Optimised for Australian climate zones
• Support a local Australian business with experience obtaining Earthship approvals
If you have already purchased plans from Earthship Biotecture or another overseas supplier, Earthship Eco Homes may be able to assist with adapting and upgrading the plans to meet Australian codes, standards, and approval requirements.
Can I stay in an Earthship and see what it's like?
Yes! Come an stay in EarthBnB Willunga in South Australia, designed by Martin Freney of Earthship Eco Homes.
How do I find out about Earthship projects & workshops?
Please subscribe to the Earthship Eco Homes newsletter here: Contact
Also join the various Facebook pages/groups such as Earthship Eco Homes, Earthship Ironbank, Earthship Down Under and Earthship Australia
There is also Natural Building Australia that promotes workshops including Earthship workshops.
Also join the various Facebook pages/groups such as Earthship Eco Homes, Earthship Ironbank, Earthship Down Under and Earthship Australia
There is also Natural Building Australia that promotes workshops including Earthship workshops.
Money
How much do earthships cost to build?
Earthships are high-quality homes designed to provide comfortable, resilient, and self-sufficient living for generations. Compared to a conventional home of similar size and quality, an Earthship will cost more to construct because features such as solar power, battery storage, rainwater harvesting, wastewater recycling, passive solar design, and bushfire resilience are integrated into the home from the outset rather than added later.
While these systems increase the initial construction cost, they can significantly reduce or eliminate ongoing utility bills, helping to offset the investment over time.
As of 2026, typical residential construction costs in Australia range between:
As an example, a three-bedroom home with a floor area of 150 m² could cost anywhere from approximately $300,000 to $825,000, depending on the design, specification, location, and level of finish.
The cost of building an Earthship varies depending on factors such as site conditions, climate, accessibility, level of self-sufficiency, design complexity, and the amount of owner involvement in the construction process.
One of the unique advantages of Earthships is that many construction tasks are well suited to owner-builders and volunteer participation. Activities such as tyre wall construction, earth rendering, bottle walls, earth floors, landscaping, and food production systems can often be completed by owners, friends, family, and workshop participants. This can reduce labour costs and allow owners to invest more of their budget into the quality and performance of the finished home.
For this reason, construction costs can vary significantly from project to project. The most accurate way to estimate costs is to engage a Quantity Surveyor to prepare a detailed cost estimate based on the approved plans and site conditions.
In our experience, the most successful Earthship projects are those where owners actively participate in the design and construction process, helping create a home that reflects their values while reducing construction costs.
For more information about residential construction costs in Australia, visit the Residential Construction Cost Table published by BMT Quantity Surveyors. www.bmtqs.com.au/construction-cost-table 4br Full brick home, level block, single level, unique design is a good example comparable to Earthship. Here is some research including infographics of housing costs in Australia. It is interesting to note that the costs change in different States.
While these systems increase the initial construction cost, they can significantly reduce or eliminate ongoing utility bills, helping to offset the investment over time.
As of 2026, typical residential construction costs in Australia range between:
- $2,000–$3,500 per m² for standard project homes
- $3,500–$5,500 per m² for custom or architectural homes
- $5,500+ per m² for high-end architectural or luxury homes
As an example, a three-bedroom home with a floor area of 150 m² could cost anywhere from approximately $300,000 to $825,000, depending on the design, specification, location, and level of finish.
The cost of building an Earthship varies depending on factors such as site conditions, climate, accessibility, level of self-sufficiency, design complexity, and the amount of owner involvement in the construction process.
One of the unique advantages of Earthships is that many construction tasks are well suited to owner-builders and volunteer participation. Activities such as tyre wall construction, earth rendering, bottle walls, earth floors, landscaping, and food production systems can often be completed by owners, friends, family, and workshop participants. This can reduce labour costs and allow owners to invest more of their budget into the quality and performance of the finished home.
For this reason, construction costs can vary significantly from project to project. The most accurate way to estimate costs is to engage a Quantity Surveyor to prepare a detailed cost estimate based on the approved plans and site conditions.
In our experience, the most successful Earthship projects are those where owners actively participate in the design and construction process, helping create a home that reflects their values while reducing construction costs.
For more information about residential construction costs in Australia, visit the Residential Construction Cost Table published by BMT Quantity Surveyors. www.bmtqs.com.au/construction-cost-table 4br Full brick home, level block, single level, unique design is a good example comparable to Earthship. Here is some research including infographics of housing costs in Australia. It is interesting to note that the costs change in different States.
how can i reduce the construction cost?
Build Small
The single biggest factor affecting the cost of any home is its size. If you have a limited budget, consider building a smaller, more efficient home rather than a larger home with unnecessary rooms and features.
A well-designed Earthship can feel surprisingly spacious thanks to passive solar design, natural light, and strong connections to outdoor spaces. Many Earthships can also be designed to allow future extensions if your needs change over time.
While the construction cost of an Earthship may be similar to, or slightly higher than, a conventional home of the same size and quality, the ongoing running costs are typically much lower due to reduced energy and water consumption.
Check out the tiny Earthship "EarthBnB" for an example of what can be achieved in a compact footprint.
Buy Suitable Land
Choosing the right block of land can save tens of thousands of dollars in construction costs.
Earthships generally work best on sites with good solar access and suitable topography. A site that requires extensive excavation, retaining walls, or earthworks will usually cost more to develop than a site that naturally suits the design.
Before purchasing land, consider obtaining advice from an experienced Earthship designer.
Optimise Your Off-Grid Systems
Solar panels, batteries, rainwater tanks, pumps, and water treatment systems all contribute to the overall project cost.
The larger the systems, the higher the upfront cost. Fortunately, Earthships are designed to be highly energy and water efficient, meaning that off-grid systems can often be smaller than those required for a conventional home.
Careful design and realistic expectations about energy and water use can result in significant savings.
Participate in the Build
One of the advantages of Earthship construction is that many tasks can be completed by owner-builders, friends, family, and volunteers under appropriate supervision.
Tyre wall construction, earth rendering, bottle walls, earth floors, landscaping, and food production systems are examples of work that can often be undertaken by people with little prior experience.
Many owners find that participating in the construction process not only reduces costs but also creates a stronger connection to their home.
Workshops and Community Builds
Earthships are labour-intensive to build, making them well suited to workshop-based construction.
A well-organised workshop can attract people who are interested in learning sustainable building skills while contributing to the project. Participants often value the educational experience, the opportunity to meet like-minded people, and the chance to gain practical hands-on experience.
Successful workshops require careful planning, experienced supervisors, appropriate safety systems, and suitable facilities for participants. When done well, they can significantly reduce labour costs while creating a rewarding community experience.
Salvaged and Recycled Materials
Carefully selected second-hand materials can reduce costs and add character to your home.
Examples may include timber, windows, doors, flooring, fixtures, solar equipment, or other building materials. However, salvaged materials often require storage, cleaning, repair, or modification before they can be used.
The best results are usually achieved when salvaged materials are identified early in the design process so they can be incorporated into the design from the outset.
For example, a stockpile of reclaimed Jarrah floorboards might be repurposed as ceiling lining, feature walls, cabinetry, or exterior detailing. By designing around available materials, it is often possible to reduce costs while creating a unique and beautiful home.
The single biggest factor affecting the cost of any home is its size. If you have a limited budget, consider building a smaller, more efficient home rather than a larger home with unnecessary rooms and features.
A well-designed Earthship can feel surprisingly spacious thanks to passive solar design, natural light, and strong connections to outdoor spaces. Many Earthships can also be designed to allow future extensions if your needs change over time.
While the construction cost of an Earthship may be similar to, or slightly higher than, a conventional home of the same size and quality, the ongoing running costs are typically much lower due to reduced energy and water consumption.
Check out the tiny Earthship "EarthBnB" for an example of what can be achieved in a compact footprint.
Buy Suitable Land
Choosing the right block of land can save tens of thousands of dollars in construction costs.
Earthships generally work best on sites with good solar access and suitable topography. A site that requires extensive excavation, retaining walls, or earthworks will usually cost more to develop than a site that naturally suits the design.
Before purchasing land, consider obtaining advice from an experienced Earthship designer.
Optimise Your Off-Grid Systems
Solar panels, batteries, rainwater tanks, pumps, and water treatment systems all contribute to the overall project cost.
The larger the systems, the higher the upfront cost. Fortunately, Earthships are designed to be highly energy and water efficient, meaning that off-grid systems can often be smaller than those required for a conventional home.
Careful design and realistic expectations about energy and water use can result in significant savings.
Participate in the Build
One of the advantages of Earthship construction is that many tasks can be completed by owner-builders, friends, family, and volunteers under appropriate supervision.
Tyre wall construction, earth rendering, bottle walls, earth floors, landscaping, and food production systems are examples of work that can often be undertaken by people with little prior experience.
Many owners find that participating in the construction process not only reduces costs but also creates a stronger connection to their home.
Workshops and Community Builds
Earthships are labour-intensive to build, making them well suited to workshop-based construction.
A well-organised workshop can attract people who are interested in learning sustainable building skills while contributing to the project. Participants often value the educational experience, the opportunity to meet like-minded people, and the chance to gain practical hands-on experience.
Successful workshops require careful planning, experienced supervisors, appropriate safety systems, and suitable facilities for participants. When done well, they can significantly reduce labour costs while creating a rewarding community experience.
Salvaged and Recycled Materials
Carefully selected second-hand materials can reduce costs and add character to your home.
Examples may include timber, windows, doors, flooring, fixtures, solar equipment, or other building materials. However, salvaged materials often require storage, cleaning, repair, or modification before they can be used.
The best results are usually achieved when salvaged materials are identified early in the design process so they can be incorporated into the design from the outset.
For example, a stockpile of reclaimed Jarrah floorboards might be repurposed as ceiling lining, feature walls, cabinetry, or exterior detailing. By designing around available materials, it is often possible to reduce costs while creating a unique and beautiful home.
EarthBnB tiny-ship
how much do plans cost?
The cost of design and documentation services will vary depending on the size, complexity, and level of customisation required for your Earthship project.
As a guide:
• Existing or standardised Earthship designs that require only minor modifications to suit your site and requirements typically cost between $15,000 and $20,000.
• Fully custom Earthship designs developed specifically for your site, climate, lifestyle, and goals typically cost between $25,000 and $40,000, depending on the size and complexity of the project.
These fees generally cover the design process, preparation of drawings, coordination with consultants, and documentation required for planning and building approvals.
The design and approval process typically represents around 3–8% of the total project cost, but it has a major influence on construction costs, performance, approval success, and long-term liveability. Good design can often save far more money during construction than it costs.
Other Design, Engineering and Approval Costs
In addition to the design fees, most projects require a range of specialist consultants, reports, and approval fees. As a guide, these additional costs are typically in the order of $8,000–$12,000+, depending on the site and project requirements.
Typical costs include:
Council approval fees: From $1,000
Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) Assessment: From $500
Soil testing and bore logs: Approximately $750
Land survey and contour plan: Approximately $1,500
Structural engineering: $3,000–$5,000
Wastewater system design: $950–$1,500
Energy assessment: $400–$600
Additional specialist reports may occasionally be required depending on the site. These can include geotechnical investigations, bushfire engineering, arborist reports, flood assessments, acoustic reports, cultural heritage assessments, Performance Solution Reports, or planning advice.
All costs are indicative only and may vary depending on the location, complexity, and approval requirements of your project.
As a guide:
• Existing or standardised Earthship designs that require only minor modifications to suit your site and requirements typically cost between $15,000 and $20,000.
• Fully custom Earthship designs developed specifically for your site, climate, lifestyle, and goals typically cost between $25,000 and $40,000, depending on the size and complexity of the project.
These fees generally cover the design process, preparation of drawings, coordination with consultants, and documentation required for planning and building approvals.
The design and approval process typically represents around 3–8% of the total project cost, but it has a major influence on construction costs, performance, approval success, and long-term liveability. Good design can often save far more money during construction than it costs.
Other Design, Engineering and Approval Costs
In addition to the design fees, most projects require a range of specialist consultants, reports, and approval fees. As a guide, these additional costs are typically in the order of $8,000–$12,000+, depending on the site and project requirements.
Typical costs include:
Council approval fees: From $1,000
Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) Assessment: From $500
Soil testing and bore logs: Approximately $750
Land survey and contour plan: Approximately $1,500
Structural engineering: $3,000–$5,000
Wastewater system design: $950–$1,500
Energy assessment: $400–$600
Additional specialist reports may occasionally be required depending on the site. These can include geotechnical investigations, bushfire engineering, arborist reports, flood assessments, acoustic reports, cultural heritage assessments, Performance Solution Reports, or planning advice.
All costs are indicative only and may vary depending on the location, complexity, and approval requirements of your project.
How do I finance an Earthship?
In most respects, financing an Earthship is similar to financing any other new home.
If you require a construction loan from a bank or other lender, you will typically need to engage a licensed builder under a building contract. Most Australian lenders are reluctant to finance owner-builder projects because they are perceived as carrying greater risk and often take longer to complete.
If you have sufficient funds available and do not require a construction loan, you may choose to build as an owner-builder. Many Earthship owners take this approach because it allows them to contribute their own labour, involve friends and family, and potentially reduce construction costs.
Some clients also choose a hybrid approach, where a licensed builder is engaged for critical stages of the project while the owner undertakes suitable tasks themselves under the builder's supervision.
Because lending policies vary between banks and can change over time, we recommend speaking with a mortgage broker or lender early in the process to understand your financing options before purchasing land or commencing design work.
It is also worth considering the long-term operating costs of the home. While Earthships may have higher upfront costs due to features such as solar power, battery storage, rainwater harvesting, and wastewater recycling systems, these features can substantially reduce ongoing utility bills and increase resilience during power outages, droughts, and other disruptions.
If you require a construction loan from a bank or other lender, you will typically need to engage a licensed builder under a building contract. Most Australian lenders are reluctant to finance owner-builder projects because they are perceived as carrying greater risk and often take longer to complete.
If you have sufficient funds available and do not require a construction loan, you may choose to build as an owner-builder. Many Earthship owners take this approach because it allows them to contribute their own labour, involve friends and family, and potentially reduce construction costs.
Some clients also choose a hybrid approach, where a licensed builder is engaged for critical stages of the project while the owner undertakes suitable tasks themselves under the builder's supervision.
Because lending policies vary between banks and can change over time, we recommend speaking with a mortgage broker or lender early in the process to understand your financing options before purchasing land or commencing design work.
It is also worth considering the long-term operating costs of the home. While Earthships may have higher upfront costs due to features such as solar power, battery storage, rainwater harvesting, and wastewater recycling systems, these features can substantially reduce ongoing utility bills and increase resilience during power outages, droughts, and other disruptions.
Can Earthships be insured?
Can Earthships Be Insured?
Yes.
Earthships can be insured in Australia, provided they have been properly designed, approved, and constructed in accordance with the relevant building regulations.
For example, Earthship Ironbank is insured. Because Earthships use some unconventional materials and construction methods, insurance companies may not have a specific category for features such as tyre walls. In these cases, the construction may simply be listed as "other" or under a similar classification.
The most important consideration for insurers is not whether the walls are made from tyres, but whether the home has been designed, engineered, approved, and constructed in compliance with the applicable Codes and Standards.
As with any home, insurance premiums will depend on factors such as location, bushfire risk, replacement value, security measures, and the insurer's individual assessment criteria.
We recommend discussing your project with insurers early in the design process, particularly if you are building in a bushfire-prone area. In our experience, obtaining insurance for a properly approved Earthship has not been a significant obstacle.
Yes.
Earthships can be insured in Australia, provided they have been properly designed, approved, and constructed in accordance with the relevant building regulations.
For example, Earthship Ironbank is insured. Because Earthships use some unconventional materials and construction methods, insurance companies may not have a specific category for features such as tyre walls. In these cases, the construction may simply be listed as "other" or under a similar classification.
The most important consideration for insurers is not whether the walls are made from tyres, but whether the home has been designed, engineered, approved, and constructed in compliance with the applicable Codes and Standards.
As with any home, insurance premiums will depend on factors such as location, bushfire risk, replacement value, security measures, and the insurer's individual assessment criteria.
We recommend discussing your project with insurers early in the design process, particularly if you are building in a bushfire-prone area. In our experience, obtaining insurance for a properly approved Earthship has not been a significant obstacle.
What are the running costs of an Earthship?
What Are the Running Costs of an Earthship?
One of the biggest advantages of an Earthship is its extremely low running costs.
If your Earthship is fully off-grid for electricity, water, and wastewater treatment, you may have little or no ongoing utility bills. Instead of paying electricity, water, sewerage, and gas providers each month, you own and maintain your own systems.
Like any home, however, an Earthship does have some maintenance and replacement costs.
Typical ongoing expenses may include:
• Water filter replacement: approximately $100–$200 per year
• General maintenance of pumps, plumbing, and off-grid systems
• Battery replacement every 10–20 years, depending on the technology and usage
• Eventual replacement of solar panels, pumps, inverters, and water tanks over their service life
As a simple rule of thumb, many Earthship owners choose to set aside approximately $1,000 per year into a maintenance and replacement fund. This can help cover the long-term replacement of major components when they eventually reach the end of their useful life.
While every situation is different, these costs are often substantially lower than the combined cost of electricity, water, sewerage, gas, and other utility bills over the life of a conventional home.
In addition to the financial savings, many Earthship owners value the independence, resilience, and peace of mind that comes from producing their own energy, harvesting their own water, and treating their own wastewater on site.
One of the biggest advantages of an Earthship is its extremely low running costs.
If your Earthship is fully off-grid for electricity, water, and wastewater treatment, you may have little or no ongoing utility bills. Instead of paying electricity, water, sewerage, and gas providers each month, you own and maintain your own systems.
Like any home, however, an Earthship does have some maintenance and replacement costs.
Typical ongoing expenses may include:
• Water filter replacement: approximately $100–$200 per year
• General maintenance of pumps, plumbing, and off-grid systems
• Battery replacement every 10–20 years, depending on the technology and usage
• Eventual replacement of solar panels, pumps, inverters, and water tanks over their service life
As a simple rule of thumb, many Earthship owners choose to set aside approximately $1,000 per year into a maintenance and replacement fund. This can help cover the long-term replacement of major components when they eventually reach the end of their useful life.
While every situation is different, these costs are often substantially lower than the combined cost of electricity, water, sewerage, gas, and other utility bills over the life of a conventional home.
In addition to the financial savings, many Earthship owners value the independence, resilience, and peace of mind that comes from producing their own energy, harvesting their own water, and treating their own wastewater on site.
How much money will I save?
How Much Money Will I Save?
The answer depends on your lifestyle, where you live, how much energy and water you use, and future utility prices.
A good starting point is to look at your current utility bills.
The average Australian household typically spends thousands of dollars per year on electricity, water, sewerage, and gas. Over the life of a home, these costs can add up to many tens of thousands of dollars.
An Earthship is designed to dramatically reduce or eliminate many of these ongoing expenses by generating its own electricity, harvesting rainwater, and treating wastewater on site.
Of course, off-grid systems are not free. Solar panels, batteries, water tanks, pumps, filters, and wastewater systems all have an upfront cost and will eventually require maintenance or replacement.
Typical costs for a fully self-sufficient Earthship might include:
• Renewable energy system (solar panels, batteries, inverter, controls): $20,000–$30,000
• Water harvesting, storage and filtration systems: approximately $10,000
• Wastewater treatment and reuse systems: $20,000
As a simple rule of thumb, many Earthship owners set aside around $1,000 per year to cover maintenance and eventual replacement of major system components.
The financial benefits of an Earthship are therefore not just about saving money. They are also about reducing exposure to rising utility prices, increasing resilience during power outages and droughts, and gaining greater independence and control over your household running costs.
Perhaps the most important point is that Earthships are inherently energy and water efficient. Their passive solar design, thermal mass, natural ventilation, water harvesting, and wastewater recycling systems reduce demand in the first place. This means the off-grid systems can often be smaller, simpler, and less expensive than would be required for a conventional off-grid home.
Many Earthship owners find that the combination of lower running costs, increased resilience, and reduced environmental impact makes the investment worthwhile.
For many Earthship owners, the decision to live off-grid is not driven solely by financial considerations.
Many people choose an Earthship because they want to reduce their environmental impact, support renewable energy technologies, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and take practical action on climate change.
By generating renewable electricity on site, harvesting rainwater, recycling wastewater, growing food, and reducing the energy required for heating and cooling, Earthships can significantly reduce the resources required to support everyday life.
Many owners also value the sense of self-reliance and resilience that comes from being less dependent on large utility providers and centralised infrastructure. In an increasingly uncertain world, knowing that your home can continue to provide shelter, water, energy, and food during disruptions is a benefit that cannot easily be measured in dollars alone.
The answer depends on your lifestyle, where you live, how much energy and water you use, and future utility prices.
A good starting point is to look at your current utility bills.
The average Australian household typically spends thousands of dollars per year on electricity, water, sewerage, and gas. Over the life of a home, these costs can add up to many tens of thousands of dollars.
An Earthship is designed to dramatically reduce or eliminate many of these ongoing expenses by generating its own electricity, harvesting rainwater, and treating wastewater on site.
Of course, off-grid systems are not free. Solar panels, batteries, water tanks, pumps, filters, and wastewater systems all have an upfront cost and will eventually require maintenance or replacement.
Typical costs for a fully self-sufficient Earthship might include:
• Renewable energy system (solar panels, batteries, inverter, controls): $20,000–$30,000
• Water harvesting, storage and filtration systems: approximately $10,000
• Wastewater treatment and reuse systems: $20,000
As a simple rule of thumb, many Earthship owners set aside around $1,000 per year to cover maintenance and eventual replacement of major system components.
The financial benefits of an Earthship are therefore not just about saving money. They are also about reducing exposure to rising utility prices, increasing resilience during power outages and droughts, and gaining greater independence and control over your household running costs.
Perhaps the most important point is that Earthships are inherently energy and water efficient. Their passive solar design, thermal mass, natural ventilation, water harvesting, and wastewater recycling systems reduce demand in the first place. This means the off-grid systems can often be smaller, simpler, and less expensive than would be required for a conventional off-grid home.
Many Earthship owners find that the combination of lower running costs, increased resilience, and reduced environmental impact makes the investment worthwhile.
For many Earthship owners, the decision to live off-grid is not driven solely by financial considerations.
Many people choose an Earthship because they want to reduce their environmental impact, support renewable energy technologies, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and take practical action on climate change.
By generating renewable electricity on site, harvesting rainwater, recycling wastewater, growing food, and reducing the energy required for heating and cooling, Earthships can significantly reduce the resources required to support everyday life.
Many owners also value the sense of self-reliance and resilience that comes from being less dependent on large utility providers and centralised infrastructure. In an increasingly uncertain world, knowing that your home can continue to provide shelter, water, energy, and food during disruptions is a benefit that cannot easily be measured in dollars alone.
Land
what type of land is suitable?
What Makes an Ideal Earthship Site?
Earthships can be adapted to a wide range of sites, but some blocks of land are naturally better suited than others.
The following checklist can help you identify an ideal Earthship site:
✓ Adequate Size and Shape
Earthships are typically long buildings oriented east-west so that the main glazing faces north. Make sure the block is wide enough to accommodate the Earthship design you have in mind.
✓ Good Solar Access
The most important consideration is access to winter sun.
Ideally the site should have:
• North-facing solar access
• Minimal shading from trees, hills, or neighbouring buildings
• Clear access to sunlight from the north-east through to the north-west
✓ Attractive Northern Views
Because the main living spaces and glazing face north, views in this direction are highly desirable.
✓ Appropriate Vegetation
Trees can provide beauty, habitat, privacy, and summer shade. However, excessive vegetation close to the building can increase bushfire risk and reduce solar access.
Ideally, large trees are positioned well away from the northern side of the building, while vegetation to the south may provide shelter from cold winds.
✓ Suitable Slope
Flat sites can work well.
North-facing slopes are often ideal because they enhance solar access and can reduce excavation costs.
South-facing slopes are generally less desirable because they reduce winter solar gain. They may not be practical for an Earthship.
Interestingly, steep north-facing sites can sometimes represent excellent value. These sites are often difficult and expensive to develop using conventional construction methods, but Earthships are particularly well suited to them because the earth-sheltered design naturally incorporates retaining structures.
✓ Suitable Soil Conditions
Most soil types can be accommodated, but highly reactive clay soils may increase engineering requirements and construction costs.
A soil test should always be undertaken before commencing detailed design.
✓ Space for Water and Wastewater Systems
The site should have adequate room for:
• Rainwater storage tanks
• Wastewater treatment systems
• Land application or irrigation areas
• Vehicle access and construction activities
Watercourses, flood-prone land, and environmental constraints may affect the location of these systems.
✓ Space for Workshops and Camping (Optional)
If you are considering an Earthship workshop, it is worth thinking about this when selecting your land.
Ideally, the site will have sufficient space for:
• Camping areas for participants
• Vehicle parking
• Temporary toilets and showers
• Communal kitchen and dining areas
• Safe storage of tools and materials
• Areas for social activities and learning
Sites with attractive natural surroundings, shade, access to water, and sufficient flat ground are often particularly well suited to workshop-based construction.
While workshops are not essential, many Earthship owners find they are a rewarding way to reduce labour costs, build community, share skills, and make the construction process more enjoyable.
✓ Consider Off-Grid Opportunities
If your goal is complete self-sufficiency, sites without existing power, water, or sewerage connections can sometimes be more affordable than fully serviced blocks.
Because Earthships are designed to generate their own energy, harvest their own water, and treat their own wastewater, expensive utility connections may not be necessary.
Talk to Your Designer Before You Buy
A site that appears attractive at first glance may have hidden constraints such as planning overlays, bushfire hazards, poor solar access, geotechnical issues, easements, flooding, or costly service requirements.
For this reason, Earthship Eco Homes strongly recommends obtaining professional advice before purchasing land. A brief pre-purchase review can often save many thousands of dollars and help ensure your chosen site is suitable for the Earthship you want to build.
Earthships can be adapted to a wide range of sites, but some blocks of land are naturally better suited than others.
The following checklist can help you identify an ideal Earthship site:
✓ Adequate Size and Shape
Earthships are typically long buildings oriented east-west so that the main glazing faces north. Make sure the block is wide enough to accommodate the Earthship design you have in mind.
✓ Good Solar Access
The most important consideration is access to winter sun.
Ideally the site should have:
• North-facing solar access
• Minimal shading from trees, hills, or neighbouring buildings
• Clear access to sunlight from the north-east through to the north-west
✓ Attractive Northern Views
Because the main living spaces and glazing face north, views in this direction are highly desirable.
✓ Appropriate Vegetation
Trees can provide beauty, habitat, privacy, and summer shade. However, excessive vegetation close to the building can increase bushfire risk and reduce solar access.
Ideally, large trees are positioned well away from the northern side of the building, while vegetation to the south may provide shelter from cold winds.
✓ Suitable Slope
Flat sites can work well.
North-facing slopes are often ideal because they enhance solar access and can reduce excavation costs.
South-facing slopes are generally less desirable because they reduce winter solar gain. They may not be practical for an Earthship.
Interestingly, steep north-facing sites can sometimes represent excellent value. These sites are often difficult and expensive to develop using conventional construction methods, but Earthships are particularly well suited to them because the earth-sheltered design naturally incorporates retaining structures.
✓ Suitable Soil Conditions
Most soil types can be accommodated, but highly reactive clay soils may increase engineering requirements and construction costs.
A soil test should always be undertaken before commencing detailed design.
✓ Space for Water and Wastewater Systems
The site should have adequate room for:
• Rainwater storage tanks
• Wastewater treatment systems
• Land application or irrigation areas
• Vehicle access and construction activities
Watercourses, flood-prone land, and environmental constraints may affect the location of these systems.
✓ Space for Workshops and Camping (Optional)
If you are considering an Earthship workshop, it is worth thinking about this when selecting your land.
Ideally, the site will have sufficient space for:
• Camping areas for participants
• Vehicle parking
• Temporary toilets and showers
• Communal kitchen and dining areas
• Safe storage of tools and materials
• Areas for social activities and learning
Sites with attractive natural surroundings, shade, access to water, and sufficient flat ground are often particularly well suited to workshop-based construction.
While workshops are not essential, many Earthship owners find they are a rewarding way to reduce labour costs, build community, share skills, and make the construction process more enjoyable.
✓ Consider Off-Grid Opportunities
If your goal is complete self-sufficiency, sites without existing power, water, or sewerage connections can sometimes be more affordable than fully serviced blocks.
Because Earthships are designed to generate their own energy, harvest their own water, and treat their own wastewater, expensive utility connections may not be necessary.
Talk to Your Designer Before You Buy
A site that appears attractive at first glance may have hidden constraints such as planning overlays, bushfire hazards, poor solar access, geotechnical issues, easements, flooding, or costly service requirements.
For this reason, Earthship Eco Homes strongly recommends obtaining professional advice before purchasing land. A brief pre-purchase review can often save many thousands of dollars and help ensure your chosen site is suitable for the Earthship you want to build.
How much land do I need? what size?
Earthships are typically long, relatively narrow buildings oriented east-west so that the main glazing faces north. This arrangement maximises natural daylight, passive solar heating, natural ventilation, and food production opportunities.
As a very rough guide:
• A typical three-bedroom Earthship may require a site approximately 45 metres wide (east-west) and 20 metres deep (north-south).
• A compact one-bedroom Earthship may fit on a site approximately 20 metres wide (east-west) and 15 metres deep (north-south).
These dimensions are indicative only and will vary depending on the design, site constraints, local regulations, and whether additional structures are proposed.
It is also important to allow space for other elements that may form part of the overall project, including:
• Food production areas and gardens
• Vehicle access and turning areas
• Garages, carports, sheds, or workshops
• Rainwater tanks
• Wastewater treatment and irrigation areas
• Future extensions
Depending on the wastewater system and local regulations, the irrigation or land application area alone may require several hundred square metres.
For these reasons, larger blocks generally provide greater flexibility and make it easier to optimise the Earthship's performance.
As a very rough guide:
• A typical three-bedroom Earthship may require a site approximately 45 metres wide (east-west) and 20 metres deep (north-south).
• A compact one-bedroom Earthship may fit on a site approximately 20 metres wide (east-west) and 15 metres deep (north-south).
These dimensions are indicative only and will vary depending on the design, site constraints, local regulations, and whether additional structures are proposed.
It is also important to allow space for other elements that may form part of the overall project, including:
• Food production areas and gardens
• Vehicle access and turning areas
• Garages, carports, sheds, or workshops
• Rainwater tanks
• Wastewater treatment and irrigation areas
• Future extensions
Depending on the wastewater system and local regulations, the irrigation or land application area alone may require several hundred square metres.
For these reasons, larger blocks generally provide greater flexibility and make it easier to optimise the Earthship's performance.
how much space with be needed for the wastewater system?
How Much Space Will I Need for a Wastewater System?
If your Earthship is not connected to a municipal sewerage system, you will generally need space on your land for a wastewater treatment and disposal area.
For many residential projects, the land application area (sometimes called the irrigation area or leach field) may require approximately 200–400 m², although the actual size will depend on factors such as:
• Soil type
• Rainfall and climate
• Number of occupants
• Type of wastewater treatment system
• Local council and environmental requirements
The land application area is the part of the system where treated wastewater is safely dispersed into the soil and utilised by plants.
Environmental regulations typically require minimum setback distances from sensitive features such as:
• Dams
• Bores
• Creeks
• Rivers
• Wetlands
• Property boundaries
The required setback distances vary between States, Territories, and local councils. In some situations, setbacks of 50 metres or more may apply.
A wastewater engineer or wastewater designer will normally be engaged during the design process. They will assess your site, review soil conditions, and determine the most appropriate wastewater treatment and disposal system for your project.
This usually begins with soil testing, which helps determine how readily water can infiltrate the soil and therefore how much land is required for the wastewater irrigation area.
Because wastewater systems can influence the layout of the entire property, it is important to consider them early when selecting land and planning your Earthship.
If your Earthship is not connected to a municipal sewerage system, you will generally need space on your land for a wastewater treatment and disposal area.
For many residential projects, the land application area (sometimes called the irrigation area or leach field) may require approximately 200–400 m², although the actual size will depend on factors such as:
• Soil type
• Rainfall and climate
• Number of occupants
• Type of wastewater treatment system
• Local council and environmental requirements
The land application area is the part of the system where treated wastewater is safely dispersed into the soil and utilised by plants.
Environmental regulations typically require minimum setback distances from sensitive features such as:
• Dams
• Bores
• Creeks
• Rivers
• Wetlands
• Property boundaries
The required setback distances vary between States, Territories, and local councils. In some situations, setbacks of 50 metres or more may apply.
A wastewater engineer or wastewater designer will normally be engaged during the design process. They will assess your site, review soil conditions, and determine the most appropriate wastewater treatment and disposal system for your project.
This usually begins with soil testing, which helps determine how readily water can infiltrate the soil and therefore how much land is required for the wastewater irrigation area.
Because wastewater systems can influence the layout of the entire property, it is important to consider them early when selecting land and planning your Earthship.
what soil type is best FOR AN EARTHSHIP?
What Soil Type Is Best for an Earthship?
Almost any soil type can be used for an Earthship, which is one of the advantages of Earthship construction.
In fact, one of the guiding principles of Earthship construction is that the best soil is often the soil you already have.
A small amount of clay in the soil can be beneficial because it may be suitable for making earth renders and other natural building finishes. Sandy soils can also work well and are often favourable for wastewater disposal systems.
The main soil types that may increase construction costs are highly reactive clay soils. These soils expand and contract significantly as their moisture content changes, which can result in additional engineering requirements such as larger concrete footings, deeper foundations, or other structural measures.
While there are simple field tests that can provide a rough indication of clay content and whether a soil may be suitable for earth renders, determining the actual soil classification for engineering purposes requires professional investigation.
As part of the design and approval process, you will generally need:
• At least three soil bore logs within the proposed building area
• A separate soil bore log within the proposed wastewater irrigation or land application area
These investigations provide important information for both the structural engineer and wastewater designer.
One of the advantages of Earthships is that the soil excavated from the site can often be used to fill the tyre walls. This can reduce waste, minimise the need to import materials, and lower transport costs.
The good news is that Earthships are generally less sensitive to soil type than some other forms of natural building.
For example, rammed earth construction often requires carefully controlled mixtures of soil, aggregate, and stabilisers such as cement. In contrast, Earthship tyre walls can be constructed using a wide variety of soils because the soil is compacted within the tyre rather than forming the structural wall directly.
As a result, most sites can accommodate an Earthship, although the engineering details and construction costs may vary depending on the soil conditions.
Almost any soil type can be used for an Earthship, which is one of the advantages of Earthship construction.
In fact, one of the guiding principles of Earthship construction is that the best soil is often the soil you already have.
A small amount of clay in the soil can be beneficial because it may be suitable for making earth renders and other natural building finishes. Sandy soils can also work well and are often favourable for wastewater disposal systems.
The main soil types that may increase construction costs are highly reactive clay soils. These soils expand and contract significantly as their moisture content changes, which can result in additional engineering requirements such as larger concrete footings, deeper foundations, or other structural measures.
While there are simple field tests that can provide a rough indication of clay content and whether a soil may be suitable for earth renders, determining the actual soil classification for engineering purposes requires professional investigation.
As part of the design and approval process, you will generally need:
• At least three soil bore logs within the proposed building area
• A separate soil bore log within the proposed wastewater irrigation or land application area
These investigations provide important information for both the structural engineer and wastewater designer.
One of the advantages of Earthships is that the soil excavated from the site can often be used to fill the tyre walls. This can reduce waste, minimise the need to import materials, and lower transport costs.
The good news is that Earthships are generally less sensitive to soil type than some other forms of natural building.
For example, rammed earth construction often requires carefully controlled mixtures of soil, aggregate, and stabilisers such as cement. In contrast, Earthship tyre walls can be constructed using a wide variety of soils because the soil is compacted within the tyre rather than forming the structural wall directly.
As a result, most sites can accommodate an Earthship, although the engineering details and construction costs may vary depending on the soil conditions.
what is the best direction to face the earthship?
What Is the Best Direction to Face an Earthship?
The most important factor is not the exact compass direction, but good solar access.
Earthships rely on passive solar design to provide natural heating, cooling, daylight, and food production. For this reason, they should be located in a sunny position with minimal shading from trees, neighbouring buildings, hills, or mountains.
In Australia and the Southern Hemisphere, Earthships are generally designed to face north.
As a guide, orienting the Earthship anywhere between approximately 25 degrees east of north and 15 degrees west of north will usually provide excellent performance. Perfectly due north is ideal, but it is not essential.
In practice:
• Facing slightly east of north provides more morning sun
• Facing slightly west of north provides more afternoon sun
• Due north provides a balanced mix of morning and afternoon solar gain
The exact orientation is often influenced by other factors such as views, topography, prevailing winds, access, vegetation, and planning constraints. A small compromise in orientation is usually far less important than ensuring good year-round solar access.
In the Northern Hemisphere, the opposite principle applies and Earthships are generally oriented towards the south.
The key message is simple: a well-designed Earthship needs access to the winter sun. As long as the building has good solar access and is reasonably close to north-facing, it will generally perform very well.
The most important factor is not the exact compass direction, but good solar access.
Earthships rely on passive solar design to provide natural heating, cooling, daylight, and food production. For this reason, they should be located in a sunny position with minimal shading from trees, neighbouring buildings, hills, or mountains.
In Australia and the Southern Hemisphere, Earthships are generally designed to face north.
As a guide, orienting the Earthship anywhere between approximately 25 degrees east of north and 15 degrees west of north will usually provide excellent performance. Perfectly due north is ideal, but it is not essential.
In practice:
• Facing slightly east of north provides more morning sun
• Facing slightly west of north provides more afternoon sun
• Due north provides a balanced mix of morning and afternoon solar gain
The exact orientation is often influenced by other factors such as views, topography, prevailing winds, access, vegetation, and planning constraints. A small compromise in orientation is usually far less important than ensuring good year-round solar access.
In the Northern Hemisphere, the opposite principle applies and Earthships are generally oriented towards the south.
The key message is simple: a well-designed Earthship needs access to the winter sun. As long as the building has good solar access and is reasonably close to north-facing, it will generally perform very well.
What Is the Best Slope for an Earthship?
A gentle slope that faces north is generally considered ideal for an Earthship.
North-facing slopes offer several advantages:
• Excellent solar access for passive solar heating and natural lighting
• Reduced earthworks compared to some other site configurations
• Good opportunities for gravity-fed wastewater systems, reducing the need for pumps
• Improved drainage around the building
Earthships are particularly well suited to sloping sites because the design naturally incorporates an earth-bermed retaining wall at the rear of the building.
As a result, even relatively steep north-facing slopes can often be suitable for Earthships. In some cases, these sites may actually represent good value because they can be difficult or expensive to develop using conventional construction methods.
Steep slopes facing east, west, or south are generally less desirable because they may:
• Reduce solar access
• Require additional retaining walls
• Increase excavation costs
• Complicate access and construction
• Increase overall project costs
Flat sites are also perfectly suitable for Earthships. In fact, many of the original Earthships in New Mexico, USA, were built on relatively flat desert sites.
The ideal slope depends on many factors including solar access, views, soil conditions, wastewater disposal requirements, access, and local planning constraints. However, if you are starting with a blank sheet of paper, a gentle north-facing slope is often the easiest and most cost-effective site for an Earthship.
North-facing slopes offer several advantages:
• Excellent solar access for passive solar heating and natural lighting
• Reduced earthworks compared to some other site configurations
• Good opportunities for gravity-fed wastewater systems, reducing the need for pumps
• Improved drainage around the building
Earthships are particularly well suited to sloping sites because the design naturally incorporates an earth-bermed retaining wall at the rear of the building.
As a result, even relatively steep north-facing slopes can often be suitable for Earthships. In some cases, these sites may actually represent good value because they can be difficult or expensive to develop using conventional construction methods.
Steep slopes facing east, west, or south are generally less desirable because they may:
• Reduce solar access
• Require additional retaining walls
• Increase excavation costs
• Complicate access and construction
• Increase overall project costs
Flat sites are also perfectly suitable for Earthships. In fact, many of the original Earthships in New Mexico, USA, were built on relatively flat desert sites.
The ideal slope depends on many factors including solar access, views, soil conditions, wastewater disposal requirements, access, and local planning constraints. However, if you are starting with a blank sheet of paper, a gentle north-facing slope is often the easiest and most cost-effective site for an Earthship.
What About Trees and Bushfire Risk?
Earthships are particularly well suited to bushfire-prone areas because many of their core design features are inherently bushfire resistant.
Earth-sheltered construction, reinforced rendered walls, minimal combustible external surfaces, and the ability to store large quantities of water on site can all contribute to improved bushfire resilience.
However, site planning remains important.
Ideally, large trees and dense vegetation should be located well away from the building, particularly on the northern side where they may reduce solar access. Trees located to the south, east, and west of the building are often easier to accommodate, provided bushfire requirements are satisfied.
In Australia, bushfire-prone land is typically assessed using the Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) system.
The BAL assessment considers factors such as:
• Distance to vegetation
• Type of vegetation
• Slope of the land
• Location of the building
• Predicted bushfire intensity
The BAL rating will influence the design requirements for the home and may determine minimum separation distances between vegetation and the building.
If you are unsure whether your site is bushfire-prone, contact your local Council or planning authority, or engage a bushfire consultant to assess the site.
Earthship Eco Homes regularly works on sites in bushfire-prone areas and can assist with integrating bushfire resilience into the design from the earliest stages of the project.
To see an example of an Australian Earthship specifically designed with bushfire resilience in mind, check out the "Fireship" project.
Earth-sheltered construction, reinforced rendered walls, minimal combustible external surfaces, and the ability to store large quantities of water on site can all contribute to improved bushfire resilience.
However, site planning remains important.
Ideally, large trees and dense vegetation should be located well away from the building, particularly on the northern side where they may reduce solar access. Trees located to the south, east, and west of the building are often easier to accommodate, provided bushfire requirements are satisfied.
In Australia, bushfire-prone land is typically assessed using the Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) system.
The BAL assessment considers factors such as:
• Distance to vegetation
• Type of vegetation
• Slope of the land
• Location of the building
• Predicted bushfire intensity
The BAL rating will influence the design requirements for the home and may determine minimum separation distances between vegetation and the building.
If you are unsure whether your site is bushfire-prone, contact your local Council or planning authority, or engage a bushfire consultant to assess the site.
Earthship Eco Homes regularly works on sites in bushfire-prone areas and can assist with integrating bushfire resilience into the design from the earliest stages of the project.
To see an example of an Australian Earthship specifically designed with bushfire resilience in mind, check out the "Fireship" project.
Can I Build an Earthship in the Suburbs?
Yes, although suburban sites can present additional challenges compared to rural properties.
Two good examples of suburban Earthships designed by Earthship Eco Homes are Earthship Goolwa and Earthship Narara.
The main factors that determine whether a suburban site is suitable include:
• Orientation of the block
• Size and shape of the block
• Local planning rules
• Solar access
• Bushfire and environmental constraints
• Neighbouring buildings and vegetation
The most important requirement is usually solar access. Earthships perform best when the main glazed side of the building faces approximately north and receives plenty of winter sunlight.
In some suburban situations, a genuine Earthship may not be practical if the block is too narrow, heavily shaded, or oriented in an unsuitable direction.
Planning approval can also be a significant consideration.
Most councils require new buildings to complement the existing streetscape. As a result, the appearance of the Earthship from the street may need to be carefully designed so that it harmonises with neighbouring homes and satisfies local planning requirements.
In many cases, it is preferable for the glazed northern side of the Earthship to face the street. Presenting the earth-bermed rear wall to the street may not be supported by some planning authorities.
Because planning requirements vary between councils, it is a good idea to discuss your proposal with the local Planning Officer before purchasing land or commencing detailed design. Earthship Eco Homes can also assist with site selection and planning advice.
Although many Earthship owners prefer rural properties, suburban Earthships can be highly successful when the site is carefully selected and the design responds appropriately to the local context.
If your goal is complete self-sufficiency, it is also worth considering:
• Internet availability
• Mobile phone coverage
• Rainwater harvesting opportunities
• Wastewater management options
• Solar access for renewable energy systems
The best suburban Earthships combine the sustainability and self-sufficiency of Earthship design with a form and appearance that integrates successfully into the surrounding neighbourhood.
Two good examples of suburban Earthships designed by Earthship Eco Homes are Earthship Goolwa and Earthship Narara.
The main factors that determine whether a suburban site is suitable include:
• Orientation of the block
• Size and shape of the block
• Local planning rules
• Solar access
• Bushfire and environmental constraints
• Neighbouring buildings and vegetation
The most important requirement is usually solar access. Earthships perform best when the main glazed side of the building faces approximately north and receives plenty of winter sunlight.
In some suburban situations, a genuine Earthship may not be practical if the block is too narrow, heavily shaded, or oriented in an unsuitable direction.
Planning approval can also be a significant consideration.
Most councils require new buildings to complement the existing streetscape. As a result, the appearance of the Earthship from the street may need to be carefully designed so that it harmonises with neighbouring homes and satisfies local planning requirements.
In many cases, it is preferable for the glazed northern side of the Earthship to face the street. Presenting the earth-bermed rear wall to the street may not be supported by some planning authorities.
Because planning requirements vary between councils, it is a good idea to discuss your proposal with the local Planning Officer before purchasing land or commencing detailed design. Earthship Eco Homes can also assist with site selection and planning advice.
Although many Earthship owners prefer rural properties, suburban Earthships can be highly successful when the site is carefully selected and the design responds appropriately to the local context.
If your goal is complete self-sufficiency, it is also worth considering:
• Internet availability
• Mobile phone coverage
• Rainwater harvesting opportunities
• Wastewater management options
• Solar access for renewable energy systems
The best suburban Earthships combine the sustainability and self-sufficiency of Earthship design with a form and appearance that integrates successfully into the surrounding neighbourhood.
how much rainfall do i need?
Rainfall is an important consideration when designing any off-grid home.
Earthships are designed to harvest rainwater from their roofs and store it in tanks for later use. The amount of water available therefore depends on three key factors:
• How much rain falls
• How much roof area is available to catch the rain
• How efficiently the water is used
A useful way to think about it is:
First you have to catch it, then you have to store it, then you have to use it wisely.
When assessing a site, it is a good idea to research local rainfall data and consider how rainfall patterns may change in the future due to climate change.
Interestingly, the birthplace of Earthships, Taos in New Mexico, receives only around 250 mm of rainfall per year. Earthships have been successfully built and occupied there for decades, demonstrating that low rainfall does not automatically rule out an Earthship.
However, in very dry climates it becomes especially important to:
• Maximise roof catchment area
• Provide adequate water storage
• Use water efficiently
• Recycle wastewater wherever possible
If additional water harvesting is required, extra roof area can often be created through sheds, garages, carports, verandahs, greenhouses, or other structures that feed water into the storage tanks.
The relationship between roof area and tank capacity is important. There is little benefit in having large tanks if there is insufficient roof area to fill them, and there is little benefit in having a large roof catchment if there is insufficient storage capacity to capture the rainfall when it arrives.
Earthships are designed to use water carefully through efficient fixtures, rainwater harvesting, greywater recycling, wastewater reuse, and integrated food production systems. This means they can often operate successfully with much less water than a conventional home.
When designing an Earthship, Earthship Eco Homes will consider local rainfall patterns, household size, water use expectations, roof catchment area, and tank capacity to help ensure a reliable water supply throughout the year.
Earthships are designed to harvest rainwater from their roofs and store it in tanks for later use. The amount of water available therefore depends on three key factors:
• How much rain falls
• How much roof area is available to catch the rain
• How efficiently the water is used
A useful way to think about it is:
First you have to catch it, then you have to store it, then you have to use it wisely.
When assessing a site, it is a good idea to research local rainfall data and consider how rainfall patterns may change in the future due to climate change.
Interestingly, the birthplace of Earthships, Taos in New Mexico, receives only around 250 mm of rainfall per year. Earthships have been successfully built and occupied there for decades, demonstrating that low rainfall does not automatically rule out an Earthship.
However, in very dry climates it becomes especially important to:
• Maximise roof catchment area
• Provide adequate water storage
• Use water efficiently
• Recycle wastewater wherever possible
If additional water harvesting is required, extra roof area can often be created through sheds, garages, carports, verandahs, greenhouses, or other structures that feed water into the storage tanks.
The relationship between roof area and tank capacity is important. There is little benefit in having large tanks if there is insufficient roof area to fill them, and there is little benefit in having a large roof catchment if there is insufficient storage capacity to capture the rainfall when it arrives.
Earthships are designed to use water carefully through efficient fixtures, rainwater harvesting, greywater recycling, wastewater reuse, and integrated food production systems. This means they can often operate successfully with much less water than a conventional home.
When designing an Earthship, Earthship Eco Homes will consider local rainfall patterns, household size, water use expectations, roof catchment area, and tank capacity to help ensure a reliable water supply throughout the year.
Council Approval
Is it possible to get approval to build an Earthship in my council zone?
Yes.
Many people assume that Earthships cannot be approved in Australia, but in most cases they simply have not explored the approval process in sufficient detail.
Earthship Ironbank was the first Earthship to receive council approval in Australia. Since then, a growing number of Earthship and Earthship-inspired projects have obtained approval in locations including:
• Ironbank, South Australia
• Goolwa, South Australia
• Inman Valley, South Australia
• Narara, New South Wales
• Marulan, New South Wales
• Kinglake, Victoria
• Cygnet, Tasmania
• Jurien Bay, Western Australia
• East Augusta, Western Australia
These projects demonstrate that Earthships can be approved in a wide variety of climates, council areas, and planning environments across Australia.
One reason this is possible is that Australia uses the National Construction Code (NCC), which provides a consistent framework for building approvals across all States and Territories. While local planning rules vary from council to council, the underlying building regulations are broadly consistent throughout Australia.
The key to obtaining approval is not whether the building is called an "Earthship", but whether the design can demonstrate compliance with the relevant planning requirements, building regulations, engineering standards, energy efficiency requirements, bushfire requirements, wastewater requirements, and other applicable regulations.
Over the years, Earthship Eco Homes has developed relationships with experienced engineers, energy assessors, bushfire consultants, wastewater designers, surveyors, and other specialists who understand how to help Earthship projects navigate the approval process.
One of the biggest historical challenges for Earthships in Australia has been the indoor greywater recycling system, often referred to as the greywater garden. However, there are now approved methods of recycling and reusing greywater in Australia, and regulatory acceptance of these systems continues to improve.
Every site and every council is different, so approval can never be guaranteed. However, the growing number of approved Earthship projects around Australia demonstrates that Earthships can and do receive approval when they are properly designed, documented, engineered, and presented.
The question is usually not "Can I get approval?" but rather "What do we need to do to achieve approval on this particular site?"
Many people assume that Earthships cannot be approved in Australia, but in most cases they simply have not explored the approval process in sufficient detail.
Earthship Ironbank was the first Earthship to receive council approval in Australia. Since then, a growing number of Earthship and Earthship-inspired projects have obtained approval in locations including:
• Ironbank, South Australia
• Goolwa, South Australia
• Inman Valley, South Australia
• Narara, New South Wales
• Marulan, New South Wales
• Kinglake, Victoria
• Cygnet, Tasmania
• Jurien Bay, Western Australia
• East Augusta, Western Australia
These projects demonstrate that Earthships can be approved in a wide variety of climates, council areas, and planning environments across Australia.
One reason this is possible is that Australia uses the National Construction Code (NCC), which provides a consistent framework for building approvals across all States and Territories. While local planning rules vary from council to council, the underlying building regulations are broadly consistent throughout Australia.
The key to obtaining approval is not whether the building is called an "Earthship", but whether the design can demonstrate compliance with the relevant planning requirements, building regulations, engineering standards, energy efficiency requirements, bushfire requirements, wastewater requirements, and other applicable regulations.
Over the years, Earthship Eco Homes has developed relationships with experienced engineers, energy assessors, bushfire consultants, wastewater designers, surveyors, and other specialists who understand how to help Earthship projects navigate the approval process.
One of the biggest historical challenges for Earthships in Australia has been the indoor greywater recycling system, often referred to as the greywater garden. However, there are now approved methods of recycling and reusing greywater in Australia, and regulatory acceptance of these systems continues to improve.
Every site and every council is different, so approval can never be guaranteed. However, the growing number of approved Earthship projects around Australia demonstrates that Earthships can and do receive approval when they are properly designed, documented, engineered, and presented.
The question is usually not "Can I get approval?" but rather "What do we need to do to achieve approval on this particular site?"
How do I get approval for an Earthship?
The approval process for an Earthship is very similar to the approval process for any other new home in Australia.
While Earthships use some unusual materials and construction methods, they still need to satisfy the same planning and building regulations as conventional homes.
The process generally involves two main stages.
Step 1 – Planning Approval
(Also known as Planning Consent, Planning Permit, Development Consent, or Development Approval depending on the State or Territory.)
Planning Approval relates primarily to how the building fits onto the site and how it affects the surrounding area.
Typical planning considerations include:
• Building size and height
• Setbacks from boundaries
• Building appearance and streetscape
• Privacy and overlooking
• Overshadowing of neighbouring properties
• Access and parking
• Land use and zoning requirements
Planning Approval generally does not assess the detailed structural design or engineering of the building.
To obtain Planning Approval you will typically need:
• Site Plan
• Floor Plans
• Elevations
• Supporting planning documentation where required
These drawings are included in Earthship Eco Homes plan sets.
Depending on your location, Planning Approval may be obtained directly from Council or through a Town Planner acting on your behalf.
Step 2 – Building Approval
(Also known as Building Rules Consent, Building Permit, Construction Certificate, or Building Surveyor Approval depending on the State or Territory.)
Building Approval focuses on compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC) and relevant Australian Standards.
This stage demonstrates that the Earthship is safe, durable, healthy, and fit for occupation.
Building Approval typically requires input from a number of specialists, including:
• Structural Engineer
• Wastewater Designer or Engineer
• Energy Assessor
• Building Designer or Architect
• Bushfire Consultant (where applicable)
• Land Surveyor (where applicable)
The role of these consultants is to demonstrate that the project complies with the relevant regulations.
For example:
• The Structural Engineer demonstrates that the building can safely resist loads such as wind, earthquakes, and soil pressures.
• The Wastewater Designer demonstrates that wastewater can be treated and disposed of safely.
• The Energy Assessor demonstrates compliance with energy efficiency requirements.
• The Building Designer prepares the detailed drawings and documentation required to demonstrate compliance with the NCC and relevant Australian Standards.
Once the documentation has been prepared, it is assessed by a Building Surveyor or Certifier.
The Building Surveyor may request amendments or additional information before issuing Building Approval.
Development Approval
Once the required planning and building approvals have been obtained, the project will generally satisfy the requirements for Development Approval (or the equivalent approval process used in your State or Territory).
Although the terminology varies throughout Australia, the overall process is broadly similar nationwide.
Why Use a Private Building Surveyor?
In many cases, Earthship projects benefit from using an experienced private Building Surveyor rather than relying solely on a council assessment process.
Because Earthships use some unconventional materials and construction methods, a private Building Surveyor is often able to dedicate more time to understanding the project and assessing compliance with the National Construction Code and relevant Australian Standards.
Private surveyors are also often able to provide faster turnaround times than council-based assessment processes.
How Can Earthship Eco Homes Help?
Earthship Eco Homes can guide you through the entire approval process, coordinate the required consultants, prepare the necessary drawings and documentation, and work with your Building Surveyor and Council to help achieve approval.
The process may seem complicated at first, but it follows the same basic pathway used for thousands of homes across Australia every year.
While Earthships use some unusual materials and construction methods, they still need to satisfy the same planning and building regulations as conventional homes.
The process generally involves two main stages.
Step 1 – Planning Approval
(Also known as Planning Consent, Planning Permit, Development Consent, or Development Approval depending on the State or Territory.)
Planning Approval relates primarily to how the building fits onto the site and how it affects the surrounding area.
Typical planning considerations include:
• Building size and height
• Setbacks from boundaries
• Building appearance and streetscape
• Privacy and overlooking
• Overshadowing of neighbouring properties
• Access and parking
• Land use and zoning requirements
Planning Approval generally does not assess the detailed structural design or engineering of the building.
To obtain Planning Approval you will typically need:
• Site Plan
• Floor Plans
• Elevations
• Supporting planning documentation where required
These drawings are included in Earthship Eco Homes plan sets.
Depending on your location, Planning Approval may be obtained directly from Council or through a Town Planner acting on your behalf.
Step 2 – Building Approval
(Also known as Building Rules Consent, Building Permit, Construction Certificate, or Building Surveyor Approval depending on the State or Territory.)
Building Approval focuses on compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC) and relevant Australian Standards.
This stage demonstrates that the Earthship is safe, durable, healthy, and fit for occupation.
Building Approval typically requires input from a number of specialists, including:
• Structural Engineer
• Wastewater Designer or Engineer
• Energy Assessor
• Building Designer or Architect
• Bushfire Consultant (where applicable)
• Land Surveyor (where applicable)
The role of these consultants is to demonstrate that the project complies with the relevant regulations.
For example:
• The Structural Engineer demonstrates that the building can safely resist loads such as wind, earthquakes, and soil pressures.
• The Wastewater Designer demonstrates that wastewater can be treated and disposed of safely.
• The Energy Assessor demonstrates compliance with energy efficiency requirements.
• The Building Designer prepares the detailed drawings and documentation required to demonstrate compliance with the NCC and relevant Australian Standards.
Once the documentation has been prepared, it is assessed by a Building Surveyor or Certifier.
The Building Surveyor may request amendments or additional information before issuing Building Approval.
Development Approval
Once the required planning and building approvals have been obtained, the project will generally satisfy the requirements for Development Approval (or the equivalent approval process used in your State or Territory).
Although the terminology varies throughout Australia, the overall process is broadly similar nationwide.
Why Use a Private Building Surveyor?
In many cases, Earthship projects benefit from using an experienced private Building Surveyor rather than relying solely on a council assessment process.
Because Earthships use some unconventional materials and construction methods, a private Building Surveyor is often able to dedicate more time to understanding the project and assessing compliance with the National Construction Code and relevant Australian Standards.
Private surveyors are also often able to provide faster turnaround times than council-based assessment processes.
How Can Earthship Eco Homes Help?
Earthship Eco Homes can guide you through the entire approval process, coordinate the required consultants, prepare the necessary drawings and documentation, and work with your Building Surveyor and Council to help achieve approval.
The process may seem complicated at first, but it follows the same basic pathway used for thousands of homes across Australia every year.
Why should I bother with approval?
Obtaining approval may seem like an unnecessary expense or delay, but it provides important benefits and protections for both you and future owners of the property.
Insurance
Approved buildings are generally much easier to insure than unapproved buildings.
If your home has been properly approved and constructed in accordance with the relevant regulations, you can have greater confidence that your insurance policy will remain valid if you ever need to make a claim.
Finance and Resale Value
If you decide to sell your Earthship in the future, approved buildings are generally easier to finance, insure, value, and transfer to a new owner.
Many buyers, banks, solicitors, and insurers will want evidence that the building has been legally approved and constructed in accordance with the relevant requirements.
Safety and Performance
The approval process requires input from qualified professionals such as structural engineers, wastewater designers, energy assessors, and building surveyors.
These specialists help ensure that the building is safe, durable, healthy, energy efficient, and suitable for long-term occupation.
For example, the approval process helps confirm that:
• The structure is capable of resisting wind, earthquake, and other loads
• Wastewater systems will not contaminate the environment
• Fire safety requirements have been addressed
• Energy efficiency requirements have been met
• The building complies with the National Construction Code and relevant Australian Standards
Peace of Mind
Approval provides reassurance that your project has been independently reviewed by experienced professionals and assessed against recognised standards.
Legal Compliance
Building without the required approvals can create significant difficulties later.
Depending on the circumstances, councils and other authorities may require retrospective approvals, additional reports, rectification works, fines, or in extreme cases, the removal of unauthorised structures.
Obtaining approval from the outset is usually faster, cheaper, and less stressful than attempting to resolve compliance issues after construction has already occurred.
In short, approval helps protect your investment, improves insurability and resale value, reduces risk, and provides confidence that your Earthship has been designed and built to an appropriate standard.
Insurance
Approved buildings are generally much easier to insure than unapproved buildings.
If your home has been properly approved and constructed in accordance with the relevant regulations, you can have greater confidence that your insurance policy will remain valid if you ever need to make a claim.
Finance and Resale Value
If you decide to sell your Earthship in the future, approved buildings are generally easier to finance, insure, value, and transfer to a new owner.
Many buyers, banks, solicitors, and insurers will want evidence that the building has been legally approved and constructed in accordance with the relevant requirements.
Safety and Performance
The approval process requires input from qualified professionals such as structural engineers, wastewater designers, energy assessors, and building surveyors.
These specialists help ensure that the building is safe, durable, healthy, energy efficient, and suitable for long-term occupation.
For example, the approval process helps confirm that:
• The structure is capable of resisting wind, earthquake, and other loads
• Wastewater systems will not contaminate the environment
• Fire safety requirements have been addressed
• Energy efficiency requirements have been met
• The building complies with the National Construction Code and relevant Australian Standards
Peace of Mind
Approval provides reassurance that your project has been independently reviewed by experienced professionals and assessed against recognised standards.
Legal Compliance
Building without the required approvals can create significant difficulties later.
Depending on the circumstances, councils and other authorities may require retrospective approvals, additional reports, rectification works, fines, or in extreme cases, the removal of unauthorised structures.
Obtaining approval from the outset is usually faster, cheaper, and less stressful than attempting to resolve compliance issues after construction has already occurred.
In short, approval helps protect your investment, improves insurability and resale value, reduces risk, and provides confidence that your Earthship has been designed and built to an appropriate standard.
Is it possible for an Earthship to pass the minimum energy efficiency requirements?
Yes.
Earthships can be designed to meet the energy efficiency requirements required for approval in Australia. However, achieving compliance often requires an energy assessor who understands both Earthship design principles and the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS).
One of the challenges is that the software used for NatHERS assessments was developed primarily for conventional Australian homes. As a result, some of the unique features that contribute to Earthship performance are not always fully recognised by the software.
Examples include:
• Tyre walls and their thermal mass
• Earth berms
• Earthtubes (cooling tubes)
• Attached greenhouses and food production spaces
• Passive solar design strategies that differ from conventional housing
In some cases, spaces such as the greenhouse may need to be assessed differently than their intended use, which can affect the predicted performance of the building.
For this reason, Earthship projects benefit from working with experienced energy assessors who understand how to model the building appropriately and identify practical pathways to compliance.
The important point is that there is a difference between a computer model and real-world performance.
While NatHERS software is an important regulatory tool, it cannot perfectly represent every innovative construction system or design feature. Earthships incorporate a range of passive design strategies that have been successfully demonstrated in practice over many decades and in many different climates around the world.
In our experience, well-designed Earthships can provide excellent thermal comfort, low energy consumption, and very low heating and cooling requirements.
The goal is therefore twofold:
• Demonstrate compliance with Australia's energy efficiency regulations
• Deliver a building that performs exceptionally well in the real world
With the right design team and energy assessor, both objectives can be achieved.
Earthships can be designed to meet the energy efficiency requirements required for approval in Australia. However, achieving compliance often requires an energy assessor who understands both Earthship design principles and the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS).
One of the challenges is that the software used for NatHERS assessments was developed primarily for conventional Australian homes. As a result, some of the unique features that contribute to Earthship performance are not always fully recognised by the software.
Examples include:
• Tyre walls and their thermal mass
• Earth berms
• Earthtubes (cooling tubes)
• Attached greenhouses and food production spaces
• Passive solar design strategies that differ from conventional housing
In some cases, spaces such as the greenhouse may need to be assessed differently than their intended use, which can affect the predicted performance of the building.
For this reason, Earthship projects benefit from working with experienced energy assessors who understand how to model the building appropriately and identify practical pathways to compliance.
The important point is that there is a difference between a computer model and real-world performance.
While NatHERS software is an important regulatory tool, it cannot perfectly represent every innovative construction system or design feature. Earthships incorporate a range of passive design strategies that have been successfully demonstrated in practice over many decades and in many different climates around the world.
In our experience, well-designed Earthships can provide excellent thermal comfort, low energy consumption, and very low heating and cooling requirements.
The goal is therefore twofold:
• Demonstrate compliance with Australia's energy efficiency regulations
• Deliver a building that performs exceptionally well in the real world
With the right design team and energy assessor, both objectives can be achieved.
Builders & Building Process
how do i find an earthship builder?
One of the biggest misconceptions about Earthships is that they require a specialist Earthship builder.
In reality, Earthships are much more familiar to builders than most people realise.
An Earthship is typically around 90% conventional construction and 10% Earthship-specific construction. The main difference is usually the tyre walls and a handful of other unique features such as earth berming, water harvesting systems, greywater recycling systems, and integrated food production areas.
The vast majority of the project still involves familiar building elements such as:
• Concrete footings and slabs
• Timber or steel framing
• Roofing
• Windows and doors
• Plumbing
• Electrical work
• Waterproofing
• Internal finishes
• Landscaping
If you are considering a Rammed Earthship, then many of the specialised wall systems are replaced by conventional rammed earth construction and you may simply be looking for an experienced rammed earth builder.
At present there are no builders in Australia who specifically market themselves as Earthship builders. However, many competent builders have the skills required to build an Earthship once they understand the plans and construction methods.
Earthship Eco Homes plans include detailed information about Earthship-specific elements such as:
• Tyre wall construction
• Earth berming and waterproofing
• Rainwater harvesting systems
• Wastewater recycling systems
• Passive solar design features
This allows builders, plumbers, electricians, and other trades to confidently construct the project using familiar construction practices alongside the Earthship-specific details.
If you are looking for a builder, consider talking to builders who already work with alternative or sustainable construction methods such as:
• Rammed earth
• Strawbale
• Hempcrete
• Mudbrick
• Superadobe
• Passive House construction
• Sustainable and eco-home construction
These builders are often more open to innovative ideas and may be interested in expanding their skills and experience.
Remember, the goal is not necessarily to find an "Earthship builder". The goal is to find a competent, open-minded builder who is willing to follow the plans and work with the design team.
In many cases, the best Earthship builder is simply a good builder who is willing to try something new.
In reality, Earthships are much more familiar to builders than most people realise.
An Earthship is typically around 90% conventional construction and 10% Earthship-specific construction. The main difference is usually the tyre walls and a handful of other unique features such as earth berming, water harvesting systems, greywater recycling systems, and integrated food production areas.
The vast majority of the project still involves familiar building elements such as:
• Concrete footings and slabs
• Timber or steel framing
• Roofing
• Windows and doors
• Plumbing
• Electrical work
• Waterproofing
• Internal finishes
• Landscaping
If you are considering a Rammed Earthship, then many of the specialised wall systems are replaced by conventional rammed earth construction and you may simply be looking for an experienced rammed earth builder.
At present there are no builders in Australia who specifically market themselves as Earthship builders. However, many competent builders have the skills required to build an Earthship once they understand the plans and construction methods.
Earthship Eco Homes plans include detailed information about Earthship-specific elements such as:
• Tyre wall construction
• Earth berming and waterproofing
• Rainwater harvesting systems
• Wastewater recycling systems
• Passive solar design features
This allows builders, plumbers, electricians, and other trades to confidently construct the project using familiar construction practices alongside the Earthship-specific details.
If you are looking for a builder, consider talking to builders who already work with alternative or sustainable construction methods such as:
• Rammed earth
• Strawbale
• Hempcrete
• Mudbrick
• Superadobe
• Passive House construction
• Sustainable and eco-home construction
These builders are often more open to innovative ideas and may be interested in expanding their skills and experience.
Remember, the goal is not necessarily to find an "Earthship builder". The goal is to find a competent, open-minded builder who is willing to follow the plans and work with the design team.
In many cases, the best Earthship builder is simply a good builder who is willing to try something new.
do i need a builder?
In many cases, yes.
If you are obtaining a construction loan from a bank or other lender, you will generally need to engage a licensed builder under a building contract. Most lenders are reluctant to finance owner-builder projects and typically require a licensed builder to manage the construction process and receive progress payments.
If you are self-funding the project, you may have the option of becoming an owner-builder, depending on the rules in your State or Territory.
Many Earthship owners choose this approach because it allows them to contribute their own labour, involve friends and family, and potentially reduce construction costs.
However, being an owner-builder does not mean you are completely on your own.
You will still need to comply with the relevant building regulations, obtain inspections where required, and ensure that the work is completed to an appropriate standard.
Depending on the State or Territory, you may also need assistance from suitably qualified professionals such as:
• Licensed builders
• Site supervisors
• Building surveyors or certifiers
• Structural engineers
• Other specialist consultants
These professionals help verify that the construction complies with the approved plans, the National Construction Code, and relevant Australian Standards.
Many successful Earthship projects use a hybrid approach, where the owner undertakes suitable work themselves while engaging qualified tradespeople and supervisors for specialised or regulated aspects of the project.
Ultimately, whether you choose a licensed builder or the owner-builder pathway will depend on your budget, financing arrangements, skills, available time, and confidence in managing a construction project.
Earthship Eco Homes can help you understand the options available and determine which approach is most suitable for your circumstances.
If you are obtaining a construction loan from a bank or other lender, you will generally need to engage a licensed builder under a building contract. Most lenders are reluctant to finance owner-builder projects and typically require a licensed builder to manage the construction process and receive progress payments.
If you are self-funding the project, you may have the option of becoming an owner-builder, depending on the rules in your State or Territory.
Many Earthship owners choose this approach because it allows them to contribute their own labour, involve friends and family, and potentially reduce construction costs.
However, being an owner-builder does not mean you are completely on your own.
You will still need to comply with the relevant building regulations, obtain inspections where required, and ensure that the work is completed to an appropriate standard.
Depending on the State or Territory, you may also need assistance from suitably qualified professionals such as:
• Licensed builders
• Site supervisors
• Building surveyors or certifiers
• Structural engineers
• Other specialist consultants
These professionals help verify that the construction complies with the approved plans, the National Construction Code, and relevant Australian Standards.
Many successful Earthship projects use a hybrid approach, where the owner undertakes suitable work themselves while engaging qualified tradespeople and supervisors for specialised or regulated aspects of the project.
Ultimately, whether you choose a licensed builder or the owner-builder pathway will depend on your budget, financing arrangements, skills, available time, and confidence in managing a construction project.
Earthship Eco Homes can help you understand the options available and determine which approach is most suitable for your circumstances.
How long does it take to build an Earthship?
How Long Does It Take to Build an Earthship?
The time required to build an Earthship depends largely on the size and complexity of the project, the number of people involved, the construction method, weather conditions, and the amount of time, energy, and money that can be devoted to the build.
One of the advantages of Earthship construction is that many tasks can be completed by owner-builders, volunteers, friends, and family members, which can significantly accelerate some stages of construction.
As a rough guide:
• The tyre wall structure for a typical Earthship can often be completed in as little as two weeks with a well-organised team of volunteers and experienced supervisors.
• The roof, windows, waterproofing, floors, services, fit-out, and finishes may take a further four to eight weeks or more depending on the size and complexity of the project.
A small, simple Earthship built by a motivated team may therefore become weatherproof within a matter of weeks.
However, a fully completed Earthship often takes considerably longer once approvals, excavation, waterproofing, plumbing, electrical work, cabinetry, landscaping, food production systems, and final finishes are included.
Projects delivered by owner-builders on weekends and holidays may take many months or even several years, while projects with dedicated crews working full-time can be completed much more quickly.
In our experience, the biggest factors influencing construction time are:
• Availability of labour
• Availability of funding
• Weather conditions
• Project management
• Complexity of the design
• The level of owner involvement
The good news is that Earthship construction methods are particularly well suited to community builds, workshops, and owner-builder participation, allowing many hands to contribute to the project and making rapid progress possible when the build is well organised.
The time required to build an Earthship depends largely on the size and complexity of the project, the number of people involved, the construction method, weather conditions, and the amount of time, energy, and money that can be devoted to the build.
One of the advantages of Earthship construction is that many tasks can be completed by owner-builders, volunteers, friends, and family members, which can significantly accelerate some stages of construction.
As a rough guide:
• The tyre wall structure for a typical Earthship can often be completed in as little as two weeks with a well-organised team of volunteers and experienced supervisors.
• The roof, windows, waterproofing, floors, services, fit-out, and finishes may take a further four to eight weeks or more depending on the size and complexity of the project.
A small, simple Earthship built by a motivated team may therefore become weatherproof within a matter of weeks.
However, a fully completed Earthship often takes considerably longer once approvals, excavation, waterproofing, plumbing, electrical work, cabinetry, landscaping, food production systems, and final finishes are included.
Projects delivered by owner-builders on weekends and holidays may take many months or even several years, while projects with dedicated crews working full-time can be completed much more quickly.
In our experience, the biggest factors influencing construction time are:
• Availability of labour
• Availability of funding
• Weather conditions
• Project management
• Complexity of the design
• The level of owner involvement
The good news is that Earthship construction methods are particularly well suited to community builds, workshops, and owner-builder participation, allowing many hands to contribute to the project and making rapid progress possible when the build is well organised.
How do I build an Earthship?
How Do I Build an Earthship?
There are several ways to build an Earthship, depending on your budget, financing arrangements, skills, available time, and desired level of involvement.
1. Engage a Licensed Builder
The simplest approach is to engage a licensed builder who is willing to build an Earthship.
Most of the construction techniques used in an Earthship are familiar to experienced builders. Apart from elements such as tyre walls, bottle walls, earth berming, and some of the water systems, the majority of the construction is similar to that used in conventional homes.
Earthship Eco Homes can support your builder throughout the project, helping them understand the plans and any unusual construction details.
If you require a construction loan from a bank, this is usually the pathway you will need to follow.
2. Become an Owner-Builder
If you are self-funding the project, you may have the option of becoming an owner-builder.
Many Earthship owners choose this path because it allows them to:
• Reduce construction costs
• Participate directly in the build
• Learn valuable construction skills
• Build at their own pace
• Involve friends and family
Depending on your State or Territory, becoming an owner-builder may require a short course, permit, or application process.
You can choose how involved you wish to be. Some owner-builders undertake a large proportion of the work themselves, while others engage trades and contractors for specialised tasks.
Certain work must still be carried out by appropriately licensed professionals, particularly electrical and plumbing work.
One of the attractions of Earthships is that many of the construction methods are relatively easy to learn. Tyre pounding, bottle walls, can walls, earth rendering, and other natural building techniques can often be undertaken by people with little or no prior construction experience.
Attending an Earthship workshop is a great way to gain practical experience before starting your own project.
3. Run a Community Build or Workshop
Many Earthships have been built with the help of volunteers, friends, family members, and workshop participants.
Earthship Ironbank, Australia's first approved Earthship, was largely built through community participation and volunteer labour.
A well-organised workshop can:
• Reduce labour costs
• Accelerate construction
• Share skills and knowledge
• Create a supportive community around the project
• Make the building process more enjoyable and rewarding
Successful workshops require planning, supervision, safety systems, and suitable facilities for participants, but they can be an effective way to build both a home and a community.
Earthship Eco Homes regularly runs workshops and can provide guidance for owners interested in incorporating workshop-based construction into their project.
Earthship networks, social media groups, and sustainable building communities can also help connect you with people interested in learning Earthship construction methods and contributing to your project.
Ultimately, there is no single way to build an Earthship. Some people engage a builder and take a hands-off approach, while others become deeply involved in every stage of the process. Most projects fall somewhere in between.
One of the great strengths of Earthship construction is its flexibility. You can build with professionals, build as an owner-builder, build with a community, or combine all three approaches.
There are several ways to build an Earthship, depending on your budget, financing arrangements, skills, available time, and desired level of involvement.
1. Engage a Licensed Builder
The simplest approach is to engage a licensed builder who is willing to build an Earthship.
Most of the construction techniques used in an Earthship are familiar to experienced builders. Apart from elements such as tyre walls, bottle walls, earth berming, and some of the water systems, the majority of the construction is similar to that used in conventional homes.
Earthship Eco Homes can support your builder throughout the project, helping them understand the plans and any unusual construction details.
If you require a construction loan from a bank, this is usually the pathway you will need to follow.
2. Become an Owner-Builder
If you are self-funding the project, you may have the option of becoming an owner-builder.
Many Earthship owners choose this path because it allows them to:
• Reduce construction costs
• Participate directly in the build
• Learn valuable construction skills
• Build at their own pace
• Involve friends and family
Depending on your State or Territory, becoming an owner-builder may require a short course, permit, or application process.
You can choose how involved you wish to be. Some owner-builders undertake a large proportion of the work themselves, while others engage trades and contractors for specialised tasks.
Certain work must still be carried out by appropriately licensed professionals, particularly electrical and plumbing work.
One of the attractions of Earthships is that many of the construction methods are relatively easy to learn. Tyre pounding, bottle walls, can walls, earth rendering, and other natural building techniques can often be undertaken by people with little or no prior construction experience.
Attending an Earthship workshop is a great way to gain practical experience before starting your own project.
3. Run a Community Build or Workshop
Many Earthships have been built with the help of volunteers, friends, family members, and workshop participants.
Earthship Ironbank, Australia's first approved Earthship, was largely built through community participation and volunteer labour.
A well-organised workshop can:
• Reduce labour costs
• Accelerate construction
• Share skills and knowledge
• Create a supportive community around the project
• Make the building process more enjoyable and rewarding
Successful workshops require planning, supervision, safety systems, and suitable facilities for participants, but they can be an effective way to build both a home and a community.
Earthship Eco Homes regularly runs workshops and can provide guidance for owners interested in incorporating workshop-based construction into their project.
Earthship networks, social media groups, and sustainable building communities can also help connect you with people interested in learning Earthship construction methods and contributing to your project.
Ultimately, there is no single way to build an Earthship. Some people engage a builder and take a hands-off approach, while others become deeply involved in every stage of the process. Most projects fall somewhere in between.
One of the great strengths of Earthship construction is its flexibility. You can build with professionals, build as an owner-builder, build with a community, or combine all three approaches.
Tyres & Tyre Walls
Where do I get tyres from?
One of the most common questions prospective Earthship owners ask is where all the tyres come from.
Fortunately, waste tyres are not difficult to find. Australia generates approximately 55 million end-of-life tyres each year, many of which ultimately need to be recycled or disposed of.
Local Tyre Retailers
Many Earthship builders obtain tyres from local tyre retailers.
In many cases, tyre shops are happy to give away suitable waste tyres because they would otherwise need to pay for collection and recycling.
It helps to explain that:
• The tyres will be used in an approved building project
• The tyres are being reused as part of a retaining wall system
• The project has the necessary approvals (if applicable)
Tyre retailers are often cautious because they remain responsible for ensuring waste tyres are handled appropriately and not illegally dumped.
Tyre Recycling Facilities
Tyre recycling facilities can also be a good source of tyres.
Many recycling operators are interested in legitimate reuse opportunities, particularly when the tyres are being incorporated into an approved construction project.
Earthships provide a practical way to repurpose large quantities of tyres in long-term construction applications rather than sending them to landfill or lower-value recycling processes.
Rural Properties and Farms
Old tyres can sometimes be found on farms and rural properties where they have been used for purposes such as:
• Tree guards
• Silage covers
• Weights and anchors
• Erosion control
However, these tyres should be inspected carefully before use.
Tyres that have been exposed to sunlight and weather for many years may become brittle, cracked, or degraded and may not be suitable for construction.
Can I Get Paid to Take Tyres?
In some circumstances, tyre suppliers may be willing to contribute towards transport costs or provide other incentives because they avoid disposal costs.
However, waste tyre regulations vary between States and Territories, and anyone handling large quantities of tyres should ensure they comply with the relevant environmental requirements.
Earthship Eco Homes can provide guidance on sourcing suitable tyres and complying with applicable regulations.
What Type of Tyres Are Best?
Most Earthships use passenger vehicle tyres because they are readily available and easy to handle.
A mixture of sizes can often be accommodated, although consistency can make construction easier.
One of the remarkable things about Earthships is that a material widely regarded as a waste problem can be transformed into a durable building material.
At approximately 55 million waste tyres per year in Australia, there are enough discarded tyres generated annually to build tens of thousands of Earthship-style homes.
Fortunately, waste tyres are not difficult to find. Australia generates approximately 55 million end-of-life tyres each year, many of which ultimately need to be recycled or disposed of.
Local Tyre Retailers
Many Earthship builders obtain tyres from local tyre retailers.
In many cases, tyre shops are happy to give away suitable waste tyres because they would otherwise need to pay for collection and recycling.
It helps to explain that:
• The tyres will be used in an approved building project
• The tyres are being reused as part of a retaining wall system
• The project has the necessary approvals (if applicable)
Tyre retailers are often cautious because they remain responsible for ensuring waste tyres are handled appropriately and not illegally dumped.
Tyre Recycling Facilities
Tyre recycling facilities can also be a good source of tyres.
Many recycling operators are interested in legitimate reuse opportunities, particularly when the tyres are being incorporated into an approved construction project.
Earthships provide a practical way to repurpose large quantities of tyres in long-term construction applications rather than sending them to landfill or lower-value recycling processes.
Rural Properties and Farms
Old tyres can sometimes be found on farms and rural properties where they have been used for purposes such as:
• Tree guards
• Silage covers
• Weights and anchors
• Erosion control
However, these tyres should be inspected carefully before use.
Tyres that have been exposed to sunlight and weather for many years may become brittle, cracked, or degraded and may not be suitable for construction.
Can I Get Paid to Take Tyres?
In some circumstances, tyre suppliers may be willing to contribute towards transport costs or provide other incentives because they avoid disposal costs.
However, waste tyre regulations vary between States and Territories, and anyone handling large quantities of tyres should ensure they comply with the relevant environmental requirements.
Earthship Eco Homes can provide guidance on sourcing suitable tyres and complying with applicable regulations.
What Type of Tyres Are Best?
Most Earthships use passenger vehicle tyres because they are readily available and easy to handle.
A mixture of sizes can often be accommodated, although consistency can make construction easier.
One of the remarkable things about Earthships is that a material widely regarded as a waste problem can be transformed into a durable building material.
At approximately 55 million waste tyres per year in Australia, there are enough discarded tyres generated annually to build tens of thousands of Earthship-style homes.
How many tyres will I need?
The number of tyres required depends on the size and design of the Earthship, the wall layout, the wall height, and the size of the tyres being used.
As a rough guide, a typical three-bedroom Earthship may require approximately 800–1,000 tyres.
Smaller Earthships may require fewer tyres, while larger or more complex designs may require more.
The exact number can be calculated once the design has been developed and the tyre wall dimensions are known.
As a rough guide, a typical three-bedroom Earthship may require approximately 800–1,000 tyres.
Smaller Earthships may require fewer tyres, while larger or more complex designs may require more.
The exact number can be calculated once the design has been developed and the tyre wall dimensions are known.
What is the best size tyre for building Earthships?
Most passenger vehicle and four-wheel-drive tyres can be used successfully in Earthship construction.
You do not need a single tyre size throughout the entire project, and there is generally no need to be overly selective. One of the strengths of the Earthship system is its ability to accommodate a wide variety of waste tyres.
As a general rule:
• Larger tyres are placed near the bottom of the wall
• Smaller tyres are placed near the top of the wall
• Tyres within the same course (row) should ideally have similar tread widths to make construction easier and create a more level wall
The tread width is generally indicated by the first number in the tyre size marking.
For example:
205/65R15
In this case, 205 mm is the tread width.
Earthship Ironbank was built predominantly using 205/65R15 tyres because they were readily available in that region. However, many other tyre sizes were also used throughout the project.
The key requirements are that the tyres:
• Are structurally sound
• Are not excessively degraded by age or sunlight
• Can be compacted with soil
• Are reasonably consistent within each course of the wall
In practice, almost any passenger vehicle tyre can be incorporated into an Earthship wall. It is usually more important to secure a reliable supply of tyres than to search for a particular size.
One of the advantages of Earthship construction is its flexibility. Rather than requiring highly standardised building materials, it makes productive use of the materials that are readily available in your local area.
You do not need a single tyre size throughout the entire project, and there is generally no need to be overly selective. One of the strengths of the Earthship system is its ability to accommodate a wide variety of waste tyres.
As a general rule:
• Larger tyres are placed near the bottom of the wall
• Smaller tyres are placed near the top of the wall
• Tyres within the same course (row) should ideally have similar tread widths to make construction easier and create a more level wall
The tread width is generally indicated by the first number in the tyre size marking.
For example:
205/65R15
In this case, 205 mm is the tread width.
Earthship Ironbank was built predominantly using 205/65R15 tyres because they were readily available in that region. However, many other tyre sizes were also used throughout the project.
The key requirements are that the tyres:
• Are structurally sound
• Are not excessively degraded by age or sunlight
• Can be compacted with soil
• Are reasonably consistent within each course of the wall
In practice, almost any passenger vehicle tyre can be incorporated into an Earthship wall. It is usually more important to secure a reliable supply of tyres than to search for a particular size.
One of the advantages of Earthship construction is its flexibility. Rather than requiring highly standardised building materials, it makes productive use of the materials that are readily available in your local area.
Do tyre walls off-gas?
This is one of the most common questions people ask about Earthships.
Based on the experience of Earthship owners, builders, and visitors around the world, tyre walls do not appear to create noticeable odours or indoor air quality issues when used in Earthship construction.
People visiting Earthships are often surprised to discover that they cannot smell the tyres at all.
New tyres in a tyre showroom can have a strong smell because they are freshly manufactured and fully exposed to the air. However, tyres that have spent years on a vehicle and been exposed to the weather generally have much less noticeable odour.
In an Earthship, the tyres are also buried within the construction system:
• The interior face of the wall is covered with render
• The exterior face is covered with earth, render, or other protective materials
• The tyres are not directly exposed to sunlight
• The tyres are not directly exposed to the occupied indoor environment
As a result, there is little opportunity for odours to enter the living space.
It is also worth noting that many conventional building products can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including:
• Paints
• Adhesives
• Carpets
• Particleboard
• Plywood
• Manufactured timber products
• Some sealants and finishes
For this reason, Earthship designers often pay careful attention to material selection and indoor air quality.
Another advantage of Earthships is that they are typically designed with excellent natural ventilation. Fresh air can move through the building via operable windows, skylights, earthtubes, and other passive ventilation systems, helping to maintain good indoor air quality without relying heavily on mechanical ventilation.
While ongoing research into building materials and indoor air quality continues, the practical experience of thousands of Earthships around the world suggests that tyre walls do not create the strong tyre odours that many people initially expect.
Based on the experience of Earthship owners, builders, and visitors around the world, tyre walls do not appear to create noticeable odours or indoor air quality issues when used in Earthship construction.
People visiting Earthships are often surprised to discover that they cannot smell the tyres at all.
New tyres in a tyre showroom can have a strong smell because they are freshly manufactured and fully exposed to the air. However, tyres that have spent years on a vehicle and been exposed to the weather generally have much less noticeable odour.
In an Earthship, the tyres are also buried within the construction system:
• The interior face of the wall is covered with render
• The exterior face is covered with earth, render, or other protective materials
• The tyres are not directly exposed to sunlight
• The tyres are not directly exposed to the occupied indoor environment
As a result, there is little opportunity for odours to enter the living space.
It is also worth noting that many conventional building products can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including:
• Paints
• Adhesives
• Carpets
• Particleboard
• Plywood
• Manufactured timber products
• Some sealants and finishes
For this reason, Earthship designers often pay careful attention to material selection and indoor air quality.
Another advantage of Earthships is that they are typically designed with excellent natural ventilation. Fresh air can move through the building via operable windows, skylights, earthtubes, and other passive ventilation systems, helping to maintain good indoor air quality without relying heavily on mechanical ventilation.
While ongoing research into building materials and indoor air quality continues, the practical experience of thousands of Earthships around the world suggests that tyre walls do not create the strong tyre odours that many people initially expect.
Do tyres leach toxic stuff into water?
Are Tyres Toxic?
Tyres contain a variety of materials, including natural rubber, synthetic rubber, carbon black, steel, and small quantities of other compounds that contribute to their performance and durability.
This understandably raises questions about whether tyres are safe to use in construction.
One of the key design principles of an Earthship is that the tyres are isolated from the living environment.
In a properly constructed Earthship:
• The tyres are filled with compacted earth
• The interior face of the wall is covered with render
• The exterior face is protected by waterproofing, drainage systems, earth berms, or render
• The tyres are not exposed to sunlight
• The tyres are not exposed to the occupied indoor environment
• Water should not come into prolonged contact with the tyres
An important part of Earthship construction is the waterproofing and drainage system behind the tyre retaining walls. These systems are designed to divert water away from the structure and keep the tyre walls dry.
Research into tyre-derived construction materials has shown that tyre components can leach under certain conditions, particularly when exposed to water over long periods. However, the amount of leaching is influenced by factors such as water chemistry, temperature, exposure conditions, and the way the tyres are used.
Studies of tyre-based civil engineering applications have generally found relatively low levels of leaching under typical conditions, particularly when tyres are isolated from continuous water exposure.
It is also important to keep the issue in perspective.
Tyres are already present throughout modern society. Every day, cars and trucks travelling on roads generate tyre wear particles that enter the environment. By comparison, Earthship tyre walls place whole tyres in a stable, protected, and long-term construction application where they are shielded from sunlight, weathering, and mechanical wear.
Many Earthship owners view this as a practical form of upcycling that gives a long-term purpose to a material that would otherwise require disposal or recycling.
Tyres contain a variety of materials, including natural rubber, synthetic rubber, carbon black, steel, and small quantities of other compounds that contribute to their performance and durability.
This understandably raises questions about whether tyres are safe to use in construction.
One of the key design principles of an Earthship is that the tyres are isolated from the living environment.
In a properly constructed Earthship:
• The tyres are filled with compacted earth
• The interior face of the wall is covered with render
• The exterior face is protected by waterproofing, drainage systems, earth berms, or render
• The tyres are not exposed to sunlight
• The tyres are not exposed to the occupied indoor environment
• Water should not come into prolonged contact with the tyres
An important part of Earthship construction is the waterproofing and drainage system behind the tyre retaining walls. These systems are designed to divert water away from the structure and keep the tyre walls dry.
Research into tyre-derived construction materials has shown that tyre components can leach under certain conditions, particularly when exposed to water over long periods. However, the amount of leaching is influenced by factors such as water chemistry, temperature, exposure conditions, and the way the tyres are used.
Studies of tyre-based civil engineering applications have generally found relatively low levels of leaching under typical conditions, particularly when tyres are isolated from continuous water exposure.
It is also important to keep the issue in perspective.
Tyres are already present throughout modern society. Every day, cars and trucks travelling on roads generate tyre wear particles that enter the environment. By comparison, Earthship tyre walls place whole tyres in a stable, protected, and long-term construction application where they are shielded from sunlight, weathering, and mechanical wear.
Many Earthship owners view this as a practical form of upcycling that gives a long-term purpose to a material that would otherwise require disposal or recycling.
Are tyres a fire hazard?
No. In fact, tyre walls are one of the reasons Earthships can be highly resistant to bushfires.
People are often surprised to learn that tyre walls behave very differently from piles of waste tyres.
In an Earthship, each tyre is:
• Filled with compacted earth
• Tightly packed against adjacent tyres
• Covered with render, earth, or other protective materials
• Largely isolated from oxygen
Because combustion requires oxygen, the conditions needed for a tyre fire simply do not exist within a properly constructed tyre wall.
This is very different from stockpiles of waste tyres, where air can circulate freely around and through the tyres. Tyre stockpiles can be difficult to extinguish because fire can spread throughout the pile and access to the burning surfaces is limited.
In a tyre wall, the earth inside the tyres and the render surrounding them significantly reduce the amount of exposed rubber and limit the availability of oxygen.
There have been instances where exposed tyre walls have been deliberately set alight, yet the fire remained localised because only a small amount of tyre surface was exposed to air. Once the exposed material was extinguished, the fire could not readily spread through the wall.
This is one reason why Earthship tyre walls are often considered compatible with high levels of bushfire resilience when appropriately designed and constructed.
Of course, bushfire performance depends on the entire building system, not just the walls. Roof construction, windows, doors, vents, landscaping, water supply, and compliance with applicable bushfire regulations are all important considerations.
The key point is that a tyre wall should not be thought of as a pile of tyres. Once filled with compacted earth and incorporated into a rendered wall system, it behaves more like a massive earth structure than a stockpile of combustible material.
People are often surprised to learn that tyre walls behave very differently from piles of waste tyres.
In an Earthship, each tyre is:
• Filled with compacted earth
• Tightly packed against adjacent tyres
• Covered with render, earth, or other protective materials
• Largely isolated from oxygen
Because combustion requires oxygen, the conditions needed for a tyre fire simply do not exist within a properly constructed tyre wall.
This is very different from stockpiles of waste tyres, where air can circulate freely around and through the tyres. Tyre stockpiles can be difficult to extinguish because fire can spread throughout the pile and access to the burning surfaces is limited.
In a tyre wall, the earth inside the tyres and the render surrounding them significantly reduce the amount of exposed rubber and limit the availability of oxygen.
There have been instances where exposed tyre walls have been deliberately set alight, yet the fire remained localised because only a small amount of tyre surface was exposed to air. Once the exposed material was extinguished, the fire could not readily spread through the wall.
This is one reason why Earthship tyre walls are often considered compatible with high levels of bushfire resilience when appropriately designed and constructed.
Of course, bushfire performance depends on the entire building system, not just the walls. Roof construction, windows, doors, vents, landscaping, water supply, and compliance with applicable bushfire regulations are all important considerations.
The key point is that a tyre wall should not be thought of as a pile of tyres. Once filled with compacted earth and incorporated into a rendered wall system, it behaves more like a massive earth structure than a stockpile of combustible material.
How should I store tyres?
Proper tyre storage will keep your construction site safer, tidier, and more pleasant for both workers and neighbours.
The main goals are to keep the tyres dry, organised, and easy to access when construction begins.
As a general rule:
• Store tyres out of the rain whenever possible
• Keep them off long grass and away from rubbish
• Organise them by size or tread width
• Avoid storing them on site for longer than necessary
Tyres can collect water if left exposed to the weather, which may create breeding habitat for mosquitoes and other pests. Long-term storage can also attract rodents seeking shelter.
A practical storage method is to:
• Sort tyres into groups with similar tread widths
• Stack them approximately 5–6 tyres high
• Securely cover the stacks with a tarp
• Weigh down or tie down the tarp to prevent wind damage
Even better, store the tyres in a shed or under cover if suitable space is available.
Organising tyres by tread width before construction can save considerable time later because tyres of similar sizes are generally used within the same course (row) of the wall.
Many builders also aim for "just-in-time" delivery, arranging for tyres to arrive shortly before construction begins rather than storing large quantities on site for months.
Keeping the site neat and organised has several benefits:
• Easier construction
• Improved site safety
• Fewer pest problems
• Better relationships with neighbours
• A more professional appearance during inspections
Remember, a pile of tyres may look like waste to a passer-by, but a well-organised stack of tyres ready for construction looks like building materials waiting to be used.
The main goals are to keep the tyres dry, organised, and easy to access when construction begins.
As a general rule:
• Store tyres out of the rain whenever possible
• Keep them off long grass and away from rubbish
• Organise them by size or tread width
• Avoid storing them on site for longer than necessary
Tyres can collect water if left exposed to the weather, which may create breeding habitat for mosquitoes and other pests. Long-term storage can also attract rodents seeking shelter.
A practical storage method is to:
• Sort tyres into groups with similar tread widths
• Stack them approximately 5–6 tyres high
• Securely cover the stacks with a tarp
• Weigh down or tie down the tarp to prevent wind damage
Even better, store the tyres in a shed or under cover if suitable space is available.
Organising tyres by tread width before construction can save considerable time later because tyres of similar sizes are generally used within the same course (row) of the wall.
Many builders also aim for "just-in-time" delivery, arranging for tyres to arrive shortly before construction begins rather than storing large quantities on site for months.
Keeping the site neat and organised has several benefits:
• Easier construction
• Improved site safety
• Fewer pest problems
• Better relationships with neighbours
• A more professional appearance during inspections
Remember, a pile of tyres may look like waste to a passer-by, but a well-organised stack of tyres ready for construction looks like building materials waiting to be used.
How long does it take to pound a tyre?
A typical car tyre can usually be filled and compacted in approximately 10–20 minutes using traditional Earthship construction methods and a sledgehammer.
The exact time depends on factors such as:
• Tyre size
• Soil type
• Moisture content of the soil
• Experience of the person doing the work
• Distance between the tyre wall and the soil stockpile
One of the easiest ways to improve productivity is to keep the soil pile close to the wall. Walking long distances to collect soil often consumes more time and energy than the tyre pounding itself.
However, a better question is often:
How many tyres can I pound in a day?
Tyre pounding is physically demanding work, and daily productivity is often limited more by stamina and organisation than by the time required for an individual tyre.
Many people find tyre pounding surprisingly enjoyable. It can be a good workout, a social activity, and a satisfying way to contribute directly to the construction of a home.
As a simple example:
• 10 people pounding 10 tyres per day for 10 days would complete approximately 1,000 tyres.
Large Earthship projects often involve dozens of volunteers working together. Earthship projects around the world have regularly involved teams of 20, 30, 50 or more people, allowing tyre walls to be completed remarkably quickly.
Mechanical Tyre Pounding
Various tools and machines have also been developed to reduce the physical effort involved.
These include:
• Pneumatic tampers
• Modified jackhammers
• Hydraulic compactors
• Custom-built tyre pounding machines
The primary benefit of these systems is usually reduced labour and fatigue, although some methods can also improve productivity.
One of the reasons Earthship construction lends itself so well to workshops and community builds is that tyre pounding is relatively easy to learn. Most people can become productive within a short period of time, allowing large groups of volunteers to make meaningful contributions to the project.
Ultimately, tyre pounding is less about speed and more about consistency. A steady, well-organised team can make remarkable progress over the course of a build.
The exact time depends on factors such as:
• Tyre size
• Soil type
• Moisture content of the soil
• Experience of the person doing the work
• Distance between the tyre wall and the soil stockpile
One of the easiest ways to improve productivity is to keep the soil pile close to the wall. Walking long distances to collect soil often consumes more time and energy than the tyre pounding itself.
However, a better question is often:
How many tyres can I pound in a day?
Tyre pounding is physically demanding work, and daily productivity is often limited more by stamina and organisation than by the time required for an individual tyre.
Many people find tyre pounding surprisingly enjoyable. It can be a good workout, a social activity, and a satisfying way to contribute directly to the construction of a home.
As a simple example:
• 10 people pounding 10 tyres per day for 10 days would complete approximately 1,000 tyres.
Large Earthship projects often involve dozens of volunteers working together. Earthship projects around the world have regularly involved teams of 20, 30, 50 or more people, allowing tyre walls to be completed remarkably quickly.
Mechanical Tyre Pounding
Various tools and machines have also been developed to reduce the physical effort involved.
These include:
• Pneumatic tampers
• Modified jackhammers
• Hydraulic compactors
• Custom-built tyre pounding machines
The primary benefit of these systems is usually reduced labour and fatigue, although some methods can also improve productivity.
One of the reasons Earthship construction lends itself so well to workshops and community builds is that tyre pounding is relatively easy to learn. Most people can become productive within a short period of time, allowing large groups of volunteers to make meaningful contributions to the project.
Ultimately, tyre pounding is less about speed and more about consistency. A steady, well-organised team can make remarkable progress over the course of a build.
Can I put sand or gravel in tyres instead of earth?
Yes.
While most Earthship tyre walls are filled with compacted earth, sand and gravel can also be used in certain situations.
The main reason earth is typically used is that it is often available directly from the site at little or no cost. In many projects, the soil excavated for foundations, earth berms, or site works can be reused to fill the tyres, reducing both material costs and waste.
Earth is also generally preferred because it provides significant thermal mass at no additional cost. The compacted earth inside the tyre walls acts as a thermal battery, helping to stabilise indoor temperatures and improve the passive solar performance of the Earthship.
Sand and gravel can also work well, but they usually need to be purchased and transported to site, which can increase project costs.
One advantage of sand and gravel is that they generally require much less compaction than earth. This can reduce labour and speed up construction.
Gravel is commonly used in the bottom one or two courses of tyres because it helps minimise the risk of rising damp and can form part of the wall's drainage strategy. Unlike soil and sand, gravel does not readily wick moisture upwards through capillary action.
In many Earthship designs, gravel-filled tyres at the base of the wall work together with waterproofing membranes, drainage layers, and agricultural drains ("french drains") to help keep the structure dry and durable.
The choice of fill material will depend on factors such as:
• Availability of materials
• Project budget
• Structural requirements
• Drainage requirements
• Site conditions
In most cases, locally available earth remains the most economical and sustainable option. However, sand, gravel, or combinations of different materials can be used where appropriate and may offer advantages in particular situations.
One of the strengths of Earthship construction is its flexibility. The goal is to create a dense, stable, durable wall using materials that are practical and readily available for your project.
While most Earthship tyre walls are filled with compacted earth, sand and gravel can also be used in certain situations.
The main reason earth is typically used is that it is often available directly from the site at little or no cost. In many projects, the soil excavated for foundations, earth berms, or site works can be reused to fill the tyres, reducing both material costs and waste.
Earth is also generally preferred because it provides significant thermal mass at no additional cost. The compacted earth inside the tyre walls acts as a thermal battery, helping to stabilise indoor temperatures and improve the passive solar performance of the Earthship.
Sand and gravel can also work well, but they usually need to be purchased and transported to site, which can increase project costs.
One advantage of sand and gravel is that they generally require much less compaction than earth. This can reduce labour and speed up construction.
Gravel is commonly used in the bottom one or two courses of tyres because it helps minimise the risk of rising damp and can form part of the wall's drainage strategy. Unlike soil and sand, gravel does not readily wick moisture upwards through capillary action.
In many Earthship designs, gravel-filled tyres at the base of the wall work together with waterproofing membranes, drainage layers, and agricultural drains ("french drains") to help keep the structure dry and durable.
The choice of fill material will depend on factors such as:
• Availability of materials
• Project budget
• Structural requirements
• Drainage requirements
• Site conditions
In most cases, locally available earth remains the most economical and sustainable option. However, sand, gravel, or combinations of different materials can be used where appropriate and may offer advantages in particular situations.
One of the strengths of Earthship construction is its flexibility. The goal is to create a dense, stable, durable wall using materials that are practical and readily available for your project.
Do tyre walls need reinforced concrete footings?
Not usually.
One of the advantages of Earthship tyre walls is that they can often be constructed without conventional concrete strip footings. Because the walls are extremely wide, heavy, and distribute loads over a large area, they can behave differently from conventional masonry or framed construction.
Earthship Ironbank, Australia's first approved Earthship, was constructed without conventional concrete strip footings and demonstrates that tyre wall construction can be successfully engineered in this way.
However, every site is different.
Whether footings are required will depend on factors such as:
• Soil type
• Soil reactivity
• Slope
• Groundwater conditions
• Building loads
• The structural engineer's assessment
Highly reactive clay soils, poor foundation conditions, or unusual site constraints may lead an engineer to specify concrete footings or other foundation measures.
In many cases, tyre walls can be founded directly on well-prepared subgrade, often with gravel-filled tyres used in the lower courses to provide drainage and minimise the risk of rising damp.
The key point is that the foundation system should be designed to suit the site rather than applying a one-size-fits-all solution.
For this reason, Earthship projects benefit from working with a structural engineer who understands the Earthship concept and the behaviour of tyre wall construction. An engineer familiar with these systems is often better placed to identify practical and economical solutions while still satisfying the requirements of the National Construction Code and good engineering practice.
Ultimately, the goal is not to avoid concrete at all costs. The goal is to use only as much concrete and engineering intervention as is genuinely required for the site conditions and the long-term performance of the building.
One of the advantages of Earthship tyre walls is that they can often be constructed without conventional concrete strip footings. Because the walls are extremely wide, heavy, and distribute loads over a large area, they can behave differently from conventional masonry or framed construction.
Earthship Ironbank, Australia's first approved Earthship, was constructed without conventional concrete strip footings and demonstrates that tyre wall construction can be successfully engineered in this way.
However, every site is different.
Whether footings are required will depend on factors such as:
• Soil type
• Soil reactivity
• Slope
• Groundwater conditions
• Building loads
• The structural engineer's assessment
Highly reactive clay soils, poor foundation conditions, or unusual site constraints may lead an engineer to specify concrete footings or other foundation measures.
In many cases, tyre walls can be founded directly on well-prepared subgrade, often with gravel-filled tyres used in the lower courses to provide drainage and minimise the risk of rising damp.
The key point is that the foundation system should be designed to suit the site rather than applying a one-size-fits-all solution.
For this reason, Earthship projects benefit from working with a structural engineer who understands the Earthship concept and the behaviour of tyre wall construction. An engineer familiar with these systems is often better placed to identify practical and economical solutions while still satisfying the requirements of the National Construction Code and good engineering practice.
Ultimately, the goal is not to avoid concrete at all costs. The goal is to use only as much concrete and engineering intervention as is genuinely required for the site conditions and the long-term performance of the building.
Bottle Walls & Can Walls
What are bottle walls and can walls?
Bottle bricks are non-structural building elements made from glass bottles, plastic bottles, aluminium cans, or combinations of these materials embedded within a rendered wall.
They are one of the most recognisable and visually striking features of many Earthships.
Bottle bricks are typically used in:
• Internal feature walls
• Greenhouse and sunroom end walls
• Privacy screens
• Decorative architectural features
Because they are non-load-bearing, bottle bricks are generally used for light partition walls rather than structural walls.
The bottles and cans are usually set within:
• Cement and sand mortar, or
• Cob (a mixture of clay, sand, and chopped straw)
Cob is often suitable for internal applications, while cement-based mortars are commonly used where greater durability or weather resistance is required.
When sunlight passes through coloured glass bottles, the effect can be similar to stained glass, creating beautiful patterns of light and colour throughout the building.
Bottle walls are one of the most labour-intensive aspects of Earthship construction. They require patience, attention to detail, and a willingness to embrace a slower, more artistic building process.
However, many Earthship owners feel the effort is worthwhile because the finished result is unique, beautiful, and impossible to replicate with conventional building materials.
What About Aluminium Cans?
Aluminium cans can also be used as fillers within non-structural walls.
Some people question whether this is the best use of aluminium because it is already a highly valuable and readily recyclable material.
On the other hand, cans can be viewed as lightweight, low-cost building blocks that help reduce the amount of mortar required and can potentially be recycled again at the end of the building's life.
Whether you choose bottles, cans, or a combination of both often comes down to aesthetics, material availability, and personal preference.
For many Earthship owners, bottle walls are not just a construction technique. They are an opportunity to create artwork that becomes a permanent part of the home.
They are one of the most recognisable and visually striking features of many Earthships.
Bottle bricks are typically used in:
• Internal feature walls
• Greenhouse and sunroom end walls
• Privacy screens
• Decorative architectural features
Because they are non-load-bearing, bottle bricks are generally used for light partition walls rather than structural walls.
The bottles and cans are usually set within:
• Cement and sand mortar, or
• Cob (a mixture of clay, sand, and chopped straw)
Cob is often suitable for internal applications, while cement-based mortars are commonly used where greater durability or weather resistance is required.
When sunlight passes through coloured glass bottles, the effect can be similar to stained glass, creating beautiful patterns of light and colour throughout the building.
Bottle walls are one of the most labour-intensive aspects of Earthship construction. They require patience, attention to detail, and a willingness to embrace a slower, more artistic building process.
However, many Earthship owners feel the effort is worthwhile because the finished result is unique, beautiful, and impossible to replicate with conventional building materials.
What About Aluminium Cans?
Aluminium cans can also be used as fillers within non-structural walls.
Some people question whether this is the best use of aluminium because it is already a highly valuable and readily recyclable material.
On the other hand, cans can be viewed as lightweight, low-cost building blocks that help reduce the amount of mortar required and can potentially be recycled again at the end of the building's life.
Whether you choose bottles, cans, or a combination of both often comes down to aesthetics, material availability, and personal preference.
For many Earthship owners, bottle walls are not just a construction technique. They are an opportunity to create artwork that becomes a permanent part of the home.
Are bottle and can walls strong/structural?
Bottle and can walls can be surprisingly strong, but they are generally not used as primary structural walls that support the roof or carry significant building loads.
In most Earthships, bottle and can walls are treated as non-load-bearing feature walls and partitions.
If structural support is required, it is common to incorporate:
• Timber posts
• Steel posts
• Structural frames
• Other engineered support elements
within or adjacent to the bottle or can wall.
The bottles and cans themselves do not contribute significant structural strength. Nor do they provide meaningful insulation.
Their primary purpose is to act as filler material and create visual interest while reducing the amount of mortar or cob required to construct the wall.
The strength of a bottle or can wall comes mainly from the mortar or cob matrix surrounding the bottles and cans, rather than from the bottles or cans themselves.
For this reason, it is important that bottles and cans do not touch each other directly.
A gap of approximately 30–50 mm between bottles or cans is generally recommended so that sufficient mortar can surround each element and create a strong, durable wall.
When constructed properly, bottle and can-walls can be robust, long-lasting, and capable of supporting their own weight and resisting normal day-to-day use. However, they are generally considered architectural features rather than structural building elements.
The real value of bottle and can walls lies in their beauty. They allow waste materials to be transformed into colourful architectural features that bring light, texture, and personality into the home.
Think of bottle and can walls as functional artwork rather than structural engineering.
In most Earthships, bottle and can walls are treated as non-load-bearing feature walls and partitions.
If structural support is required, it is common to incorporate:
• Timber posts
• Steel posts
• Structural frames
• Other engineered support elements
within or adjacent to the bottle or can wall.
The bottles and cans themselves do not contribute significant structural strength. Nor do they provide meaningful insulation.
Their primary purpose is to act as filler material and create visual interest while reducing the amount of mortar or cob required to construct the wall.
The strength of a bottle or can wall comes mainly from the mortar or cob matrix surrounding the bottles and cans, rather than from the bottles or cans themselves.
For this reason, it is important that bottles and cans do not touch each other directly.
A gap of approximately 30–50 mm between bottles or cans is generally recommended so that sufficient mortar can surround each element and create a strong, durable wall.
When constructed properly, bottle and can-walls can be robust, long-lasting, and capable of supporting their own weight and resisting normal day-to-day use. However, they are generally considered architectural features rather than structural building elements.
The real value of bottle and can walls lies in their beauty. They allow waste materials to be transformed into colourful architectural features that bring light, texture, and personality into the home.
Think of bottle and can walls as functional artwork rather than structural engineering.
do i have to use bottles and cans?
No.
Bottle and can walls are one of the most recognisable features of many Earthships, but they are not essential.
The purpose of bottle and can walls is largely aesthetic. They create beautiful patterns of coloured light, provide opportunities for artistic expression, and make productive use of recycled materials.
If bottle walls do not appeal to you, there are many alternative wall materials and construction methods that can be used instead, including:
• Earth render
• Lime render
• Timber
• Rammed earth
• Strawbale
• Hempcrete
• Adobe
• Mudbrick
• Recycled timber products
• Conventional framed construction
The important question is not whether you use bottles and cans, but whether the materials align with the broader Earthship philosophy of sustainability, durability, and resource efficiency.
If you are aiming to build a genuine Earthship, it is worth considering wall materials that:
• Use recycled or natural materials
• Have a low embodied energy
• Minimise waste
• Reduce environmental impact
• Are durable and long-lasting
Many Earthship owners choose bottle walls because they are beautiful and unique. Others prefer simpler alternatives that are faster to build or better suited to their budget and aesthetic preferences.
Ultimately, bottle and can walls are an option, not a requirement. The six principles of Earthship design are far more important than any particular decorative feature.
Bottle and can walls are one of the most recognisable features of many Earthships, but they are not essential.
The purpose of bottle and can walls is largely aesthetic. They create beautiful patterns of coloured light, provide opportunities for artistic expression, and make productive use of recycled materials.
If bottle walls do not appeal to you, there are many alternative wall materials and construction methods that can be used instead, including:
• Earth render
• Lime render
• Timber
• Rammed earth
• Strawbale
• Hempcrete
• Adobe
• Mudbrick
• Recycled timber products
• Conventional framed construction
The important question is not whether you use bottles and cans, but whether the materials align with the broader Earthship philosophy of sustainability, durability, and resource efficiency.
If you are aiming to build a genuine Earthship, it is worth considering wall materials that:
• Use recycled or natural materials
• Have a low embodied energy
• Minimise waste
• Reduce environmental impact
• Are durable and long-lasting
Many Earthship owners choose bottle walls because they are beautiful and unique. Others prefer simpler alternatives that are faster to build or better suited to their budget and aesthetic preferences.
Ultimately, bottle and can walls are an option, not a requirement. The six principles of Earthship design are far more important than any particular decorative feature.
Design
Do Earthships work well in all Australian climates?
Yes, Earthships can work in most climates when they are designed appropriately for the local conditions.
One of the strengths of the Earthship concept is that it is based on fundamental principles such as passive solar design, thermal mass, natural ventilation, renewable energy, rainwater harvesting, wastewater recycling, and food production. These principles can be adapted to suit a wide range of climates.
Earthships tend to perform particularly well in:
• Cool temperate climates
• Temperate climates
• Semi-arid climates
• High-altitude climates
In these environments, the combination of thermal mass, insulation, passive solar heating, and earth sheltering can create very comfortable indoor conditions with little or no conventional heating and cooling.
In climates with long periods of cloudy winter weather, some supplementary heating may be required from time to time. However, heating requirements are often significantly lower than those of conventional homes.
Hot climates can also be suitable for Earthships, provided the design incorporates appropriate cooling strategies such as:
• Earth sheltering
• Earthtubes (cooling tubes)
• Shading
• Natural ventilation
• Reflective roofing materials
• Careful orientation
In subtropical and tropical climates, some aspects of the traditional Earthship design may need to be modified. For example, the amount of glazing, ventilation strategy, humidity management, and roof design may differ substantially from Earthships built in cooler climates.
However, the underlying goals remain the same:
• Comfortable indoor temperatures
• Minimal energy use
• Renewable energy generation
• Water self-sufficiency
• Wastewater recycling
• Food production
The key is not to copy an Earthship from another climate. The key is to apply Earthship principles in a way that responds appropriately to the local environment.
Earthship Eco Homes specialises in adapting Earthship concepts to Australian climates and conditions. An Earthship designed for Tasmania may look quite different from one designed for tropical Queensland. Likewise, an Earthship in Adelaide may differ significantly from one in Perth, Melbourne, Darwin, Alice Springs, or Hobart.
For example:
• Tasmania may require a greater emphasis on winter solar gain and insulation.
• Tropical Queensland may require more shading, ventilation, and humidity control.
• Central Australia may focus on coping with extreme temperature variations between day and night.
• Southern Australia may balance passive solar heating with summer overheating protection.
Yet all of these homes can still be genuine Earthships because they are applying the same core principles in different ways.
A good Earthship responds to its climate rather than fighting against it.
Ultimately, a successful Earthship is not defined by a particular floor plan or construction detail. It is defined by how well it responds to its climate and supports a sustainable, self-sufficient way of living.
One of the strengths of the Earthship concept is that it is based on fundamental principles such as passive solar design, thermal mass, natural ventilation, renewable energy, rainwater harvesting, wastewater recycling, and food production. These principles can be adapted to suit a wide range of climates.
Earthships tend to perform particularly well in:
• Cool temperate climates
• Temperate climates
• Semi-arid climates
• High-altitude climates
In these environments, the combination of thermal mass, insulation, passive solar heating, and earth sheltering can create very comfortable indoor conditions with little or no conventional heating and cooling.
In climates with long periods of cloudy winter weather, some supplementary heating may be required from time to time. However, heating requirements are often significantly lower than those of conventional homes.
Hot climates can also be suitable for Earthships, provided the design incorporates appropriate cooling strategies such as:
• Earth sheltering
• Earthtubes (cooling tubes)
• Shading
• Natural ventilation
• Reflective roofing materials
• Careful orientation
In subtropical and tropical climates, some aspects of the traditional Earthship design may need to be modified. For example, the amount of glazing, ventilation strategy, humidity management, and roof design may differ substantially from Earthships built in cooler climates.
However, the underlying goals remain the same:
• Comfortable indoor temperatures
• Minimal energy use
• Renewable energy generation
• Water self-sufficiency
• Wastewater recycling
• Food production
The key is not to copy an Earthship from another climate. The key is to apply Earthship principles in a way that responds appropriately to the local environment.
Earthship Eco Homes specialises in adapting Earthship concepts to Australian climates and conditions. An Earthship designed for Tasmania may look quite different from one designed for tropical Queensland. Likewise, an Earthship in Adelaide may differ significantly from one in Perth, Melbourne, Darwin, Alice Springs, or Hobart.
For example:
• Tasmania may require a greater emphasis on winter solar gain and insulation.
• Tropical Queensland may require more shading, ventilation, and humidity control.
• Central Australia may focus on coping with extreme temperature variations between day and night.
• Southern Australia may balance passive solar heating with summer overheating protection.
Yet all of these homes can still be genuine Earthships because they are applying the same core principles in different ways.
A good Earthship responds to its climate rather than fighting against it.
Ultimately, a successful Earthship is not defined by a particular floor plan or construction detail. It is defined by how well it responds to its climate and supports a sustainable, self-sufficient way of living.
Are termites and issue for Earthships?
Yes and no.
Termites can be a serious issue for any home if they are not properly considered during the design process. However, Earthships can be designed to minimise the risk of termite damage.
In Australia, termite management is addressed by the National Construction Code (NCC) and various Australian Standards.
Conventional termite management approaches typically include:
• Physical barriers such as stainless steel mesh systems
• Granular barriers
• Chemical treatment systems
• Inspection zones
These systems can be effective, but they generally focus on preventing termites from reaching susceptible building materials.
Earthship Eco Homes takes a slightly different approach.
Rather than relying solely on barriers, we aim wherever practical to ensure that the primary structural elements of the building are not susceptible to termite attack in the first place.
Examples of termite-resistant structural materials include:
• Tyre walls
• Concrete
• Masonry
• Steel
• Termite-treated timber
• Naturally termite-resistant hardwoods
This approach is particularly relevant for earth-sheltered buildings. Because Earthships are often surrounded by earth berms, it can be difficult to guarantee that termites will never find a pathway around a barrier system.
By reducing or eliminating termite-susceptible structural elements, the consequences of termite activity can be significantly reduced.
Depending on the site, design, and local regulations, additional termite management measures may still be required or recommended.
Many Earthship owners also choose to install termite monitoring or baiting systems around the building. These systems can provide early warning of termite activity and allow treatment to occur before significant damage develops.
The important point is that termites should be considered during the design stage, not after construction.
A well-designed Earthship can be highly resistant to termite damage through a combination of material selection, good detailing, moisture management, and where appropriate, monitoring or treatment systems.
Ultimately, the goal is not simply to keep termites away. The goal is to ensure that the building remains safe and durable even if termites are present in the surrounding environment.
Termites can be a serious issue for any home if they are not properly considered during the design process. However, Earthships can be designed to minimise the risk of termite damage.
In Australia, termite management is addressed by the National Construction Code (NCC) and various Australian Standards.
Conventional termite management approaches typically include:
• Physical barriers such as stainless steel mesh systems
• Granular barriers
• Chemical treatment systems
• Inspection zones
These systems can be effective, but they generally focus on preventing termites from reaching susceptible building materials.
Earthship Eco Homes takes a slightly different approach.
Rather than relying solely on barriers, we aim wherever practical to ensure that the primary structural elements of the building are not susceptible to termite attack in the first place.
Examples of termite-resistant structural materials include:
• Tyre walls
• Concrete
• Masonry
• Steel
• Termite-treated timber
• Naturally termite-resistant hardwoods
This approach is particularly relevant for earth-sheltered buildings. Because Earthships are often surrounded by earth berms, it can be difficult to guarantee that termites will never find a pathway around a barrier system.
By reducing or eliminating termite-susceptible structural elements, the consequences of termite activity can be significantly reduced.
Depending on the site, design, and local regulations, additional termite management measures may still be required or recommended.
Many Earthship owners also choose to install termite monitoring or baiting systems around the building. These systems can provide early warning of termite activity and allow treatment to occur before significant damage develops.
The important point is that termites should be considered during the design stage, not after construction.
A well-designed Earthship can be highly resistant to termite damage through a combination of material selection, good detailing, moisture management, and where appropriate, monitoring or treatment systems.
Ultimately, the goal is not simply to keep termites away. The goal is to ensure that the building remains safe and durable even if termites are present in the surrounding environment.
What type of floor can I have in an Earthship?
Earthships typically use floors with high thermal mass such as concrete, earth, stone, brick, pavers, or tiles rather than carpeted or lightweight timber floors.
Thermal mass floors are an important part of passive solar design because they absorb heat from the winter sun during the day and release it slowly during the evening, helping to maintain a comfortable and stable indoor temperature.
In most Australian climates, thermal mass floors work extremely well and contribute significantly to the performance of the home.
Common floor options include:
• Earth floors
• Concrete floors
• Stone floors
• Brick or paver floors
• Tiled floors
Earth Floors
Earth floors are one of the most natural and beautiful flooring options available.
They have a warm, organic appearance and connect the building to the landscape in a way that few other materials can.
Many Earthship owners love earth floors because they:
• Use natural materials
• Have very low embodied energy
• Provide excellent thermal mass
• Are relatively inexpensive
• Can often utilise local soils
The main disadvantage is that earth floors are generally less durable than concrete. For example, high heels, sharp furniture legs, and heavy impacts may cause damage over time.
The good news is that earth floors are often relatively easy to repair and maintain.
Concrete Floors
Concrete is the most common flooring option in modern Earthships.
Concrete floors are:
• Durable
• Easy to clean
• Excellent thermal mass
• Readily approved by building authorities
• Compatible with many finishes
Concrete floors are typically sealed to improve durability and reduce dusting. Where possible, many people prefer low-toxicity water-based sealers.
A concrete slab can also be enhanced through:
• Grinding and polishing
• Acid etching
• Staining
• Exposed aggregate finishes
• Decorative scoring patterns
These techniques can create attractive finishes while retaining the thermal benefits of the slab.
Stone, Brick and Paver Floors
Stone, brick, and paver floors are also excellent choices because they combine durability with substantial thermal mass.
They can create beautiful natural finishes while contributing to the thermal performance of the home.
Ultimately, there is no single "best" floor for an Earthship. The ideal choice depends on your budget, aesthetic preferences, climate, intended use, and willingness to undertake maintenance.
The most important consideration is usually not the material itself, but whether the floor contributes to the passive solar performance of the building by providing useful thermal mass.
Thermal mass floors are an important part of passive solar design because they absorb heat from the winter sun during the day and release it slowly during the evening, helping to maintain a comfortable and stable indoor temperature.
In most Australian climates, thermal mass floors work extremely well and contribute significantly to the performance of the home.
Common floor options include:
• Earth floors
• Concrete floors
• Stone floors
• Brick or paver floors
• Tiled floors
Earth Floors
Earth floors are one of the most natural and beautiful flooring options available.
They have a warm, organic appearance and connect the building to the landscape in a way that few other materials can.
Many Earthship owners love earth floors because they:
• Use natural materials
• Have very low embodied energy
• Provide excellent thermal mass
• Are relatively inexpensive
• Can often utilise local soils
The main disadvantage is that earth floors are generally less durable than concrete. For example, high heels, sharp furniture legs, and heavy impacts may cause damage over time.
The good news is that earth floors are often relatively easy to repair and maintain.
Concrete Floors
Concrete is the most common flooring option in modern Earthships.
Concrete floors are:
• Durable
• Easy to clean
• Excellent thermal mass
• Readily approved by building authorities
• Compatible with many finishes
Concrete floors are typically sealed to improve durability and reduce dusting. Where possible, many people prefer low-toxicity water-based sealers.
A concrete slab can also be enhanced through:
• Grinding and polishing
• Acid etching
• Staining
• Exposed aggregate finishes
• Decorative scoring patterns
These techniques can create attractive finishes while retaining the thermal benefits of the slab.
Stone, Brick and Paver Floors
Stone, brick, and paver floors are also excellent choices because they combine durability with substantial thermal mass.
They can create beautiful natural finishes while contributing to the thermal performance of the home.
Ultimately, there is no single "best" floor for an Earthship. The ideal choice depends on your budget, aesthetic preferences, climate, intended use, and willingness to undertake maintenance.
The most important consideration is usually not the material itself, but whether the floor contributes to the passive solar performance of the building by providing useful thermal mass.
What type of roof can I have on an Earthship?
There is no single "correct" Earthship roof.
Over the decades, Earthships have been built with a wide variety of roof designs, and Earthship Biotecture in the USA has experimented extensively with different approaches.
Three common Earthship roof types are:
• Skillion roof
• Earth-covered vaulted roof
• Gable roof
Skillion Roof
A skillion roof is a simple single-pitch roof that slopes towards a gutter, typically located at the rear of the building.
This approach is commonly used in modern Earthship designs because it:
• Is relatively simple to construct
• Provides good rainwater harvesting
• Can accommodate solar panels easily (on racks)
• Works well with conventional Australian construction methods
Earthship East Augusta is a good example of a skillion roof (with solar panels).
Earth-Covered Vaulted Roof
One of the most iconic Earthship roof designs is the earth-covered vaulted roof.
These roofs are often constructed using ferrocement and then covered with waterproofing, drainage layers, and soil.
Potential advantages include:
• Excellent thermal performance
• Additional thermal mass
• Protection from temperature extremes
• A unique architectural appearance
• Potential resistance to radiant bushfire heat
• Potential resistance to extreme wind events
However, earth-covered roofs require careful engineering, waterproofing, drainage, and structural design to ensure long-term durability.
EarthBnB Willunga is a good example of an earth covered roof.
Gable Roof
A gable roof is another common option and is often well suited to Australian conditions.
A typical Earthship gable roof may be configured with:
• A north-facing roof plane for solar panels
• A south-facing roof plane draining to a rear gutter
Advantages include:
• Familiar construction methods
• Efficient rainwater collection
• Good solar panel orientation
• Straightforward engineering and approvals
Earthship Goolwa is a good example of a gable roof.
What Is the Most Important Thing?
The shape of the roof is actually less important than how well it performs.
Regardless of the roof style, a successful Earthship roof should:
• Be completely waterproof
• Be well insulated
• Manage condensation effectively
• Harvest rainwater efficiently
• Suit the local climate
• Comply with structural and bushfire requirements
The best roof for your Earthship will depend on factors such as climate, rainfall, bushfire risk, wind conditions, budget, construction skills, aesthetics, and maintenance preferences.
Earthship Eco Homes can help determine which roof type is most appropriate for your site and design objectives.
Ultimately, a good Earthship roof is not defined by its shape. It is defined by how effectively it keeps water out, keeps heat where you want it, and contributes to the long-term performance of the home.
Over the decades, Earthships have been built with a wide variety of roof designs, and Earthship Biotecture in the USA has experimented extensively with different approaches.
Three common Earthship roof types are:
• Skillion roof
• Earth-covered vaulted roof
• Gable roof
Skillion Roof
A skillion roof is a simple single-pitch roof that slopes towards a gutter, typically located at the rear of the building.
This approach is commonly used in modern Earthship designs because it:
• Is relatively simple to construct
• Provides good rainwater harvesting
• Can accommodate solar panels easily (on racks)
• Works well with conventional Australian construction methods
Earthship East Augusta is a good example of a skillion roof (with solar panels).
Earth-Covered Vaulted Roof
One of the most iconic Earthship roof designs is the earth-covered vaulted roof.
These roofs are often constructed using ferrocement and then covered with waterproofing, drainage layers, and soil.
Potential advantages include:
• Excellent thermal performance
• Additional thermal mass
• Protection from temperature extremes
• A unique architectural appearance
• Potential resistance to radiant bushfire heat
• Potential resistance to extreme wind events
However, earth-covered roofs require careful engineering, waterproofing, drainage, and structural design to ensure long-term durability.
EarthBnB Willunga is a good example of an earth covered roof.
Gable Roof
A gable roof is another common option and is often well suited to Australian conditions.
A typical Earthship gable roof may be configured with:
• A north-facing roof plane for solar panels
• A south-facing roof plane draining to a rear gutter
Advantages include:
• Familiar construction methods
• Efficient rainwater collection
• Good solar panel orientation
• Straightforward engineering and approvals
Earthship Goolwa is a good example of a gable roof.
What Is the Most Important Thing?
The shape of the roof is actually less important than how well it performs.
Regardless of the roof style, a successful Earthship roof should:
• Be completely waterproof
• Be well insulated
• Manage condensation effectively
• Harvest rainwater efficiently
• Suit the local climate
• Comply with structural and bushfire requirements
The best roof for your Earthship will depend on factors such as climate, rainfall, bushfire risk, wind conditions, budget, construction skills, aesthetics, and maintenance preferences.
Earthship Eco Homes can help determine which roof type is most appropriate for your site and design objectives.
Ultimately, a good Earthship roof is not defined by its shape. It is defined by how effectively it keeps water out, keeps heat where you want it, and contributes to the long-term performance of the home.
I don't like tyres - can I use other materials for the walls?
What Are the Alternatives to Tyre Walls?
Tyre walls are one of the most distinctive features of an Earthship, but they are not the only option.
In a typical Earthship, the tyre wall forms the main retaining wall at the rear of the building, supporting the earth berm and providing thermal mass.
The primary requirements of this wall are that it is:
• Structurally sound
• Durable
• Resistant to moisture
• Able to retain earth safely
• Capable of providing thermal mass
A variety of other retaining wall systems can potentially fulfil these requirements, including:
• Rammed earth
• Superadobe (earth-filled sandbags)
• Concrete block
• Reinforced concrete
• Precast concrete panels
• Stone masonry
• Stabilised earth systems
• Other engineered retaining wall systems
The choice of wall material will depend on factors such as:
• Availability of materials
• Construction skills
• Budget
• Engineering requirements
• Climate
• Aesthetic preferences
• Environmental considerations
Many people are attracted to tyre walls because they transform a waste material into a useful building product while providing substantial thermal mass and structural capacity.
Tyres are also widely available, relatively inexpensive, and capable of accommodating a wide range of soil types.
However, some clients prefer alternative systems for aesthetic, practical, regulatory, or personal reasons.
When considering alternatives, it is worth thinking beyond structural performance and cost.
Ask yourself:
• What will the wall look like?
• What will it feel like to live beside?
• What is its environmental footprint?
• How much maintenance will it require?
• How durable will it be over the long term?
Concrete-based systems are often straightforward to engineer and construct, but they typically have a higher embodied carbon footprint than tyre walls.
Earth-based systems such as rammed earth and superadobe may offer environmental benefits while still providing thermal mass and durability.
Ultimately, there is no rule that says an Earthship must contain tyre walls. The goal is to create a durable, high-performance retaining wall that supports the broader Earthship principles of sustainability, resilience, and self-sufficiency.
That said, from an environmental perspective, tyre walls remain one of the most effective ways of transforming a problematic waste product into a long-lasting building material.
Tyre walls are one of the most distinctive features of an Earthship, but they are not the only option.
In a typical Earthship, the tyre wall forms the main retaining wall at the rear of the building, supporting the earth berm and providing thermal mass.
The primary requirements of this wall are that it is:
• Structurally sound
• Durable
• Resistant to moisture
• Able to retain earth safely
• Capable of providing thermal mass
A variety of other retaining wall systems can potentially fulfil these requirements, including:
• Rammed earth
• Superadobe (earth-filled sandbags)
• Concrete block
• Reinforced concrete
• Precast concrete panels
• Stone masonry
• Stabilised earth systems
• Other engineered retaining wall systems
The choice of wall material will depend on factors such as:
• Availability of materials
• Construction skills
• Budget
• Engineering requirements
• Climate
• Aesthetic preferences
• Environmental considerations
Many people are attracted to tyre walls because they transform a waste material into a useful building product while providing substantial thermal mass and structural capacity.
Tyres are also widely available, relatively inexpensive, and capable of accommodating a wide range of soil types.
However, some clients prefer alternative systems for aesthetic, practical, regulatory, or personal reasons.
When considering alternatives, it is worth thinking beyond structural performance and cost.
Ask yourself:
• What will the wall look like?
• What will it feel like to live beside?
• What is its environmental footprint?
• How much maintenance will it require?
• How durable will it be over the long term?
Concrete-based systems are often straightforward to engineer and construct, but they typically have a higher embodied carbon footprint than tyre walls.
Earth-based systems such as rammed earth and superadobe may offer environmental benefits while still providing thermal mass and durability.
Ultimately, there is no rule that says an Earthship must contain tyre walls. The goal is to create a durable, high-performance retaining wall that supports the broader Earthship principles of sustainability, resilience, and self-sufficiency.
That said, from an environmental perspective, tyre walls remain one of the most effective ways of transforming a problematic waste product into a long-lasting building material.
why do some earthships have sloping windows?
Many of the original Earthships designed in New Mexico featured sloping greenhouse windows rather than conventional vertical glazing.
This design evolved in response to the cold, sunny, high-altitude desert climate of the American Southwest.
In very cold climates, sloping windows can offer several advantages:
• Increased solar heat gain during winter
• More sunlight reaching the indoor garden
• Improved passive solar performance
• Reduced shadowing within the greenhouse
The result is a greenhouse that captures large amounts of winter sunlight and contributes to heating the home.
However, what works well in one climate may not work well in another.
In Australia, excessive solar gain is often a greater concern than insufficient solar gain. In many parts of the country, overheating during summer is a bigger challenge than keeping warm during winter.
For this reason, sloping windows may not always be the best solution for Australian conditions.
Potential disadvantages of sloping windows include:
• Increased summer heat gain
• More difficult shading design
• Higher construction costs
• More complex waterproofing details
• More difficult cleaning and maintenance
• Possible limitations on glass or glazing warranties
As Earthship designs have evolved, Earthship Biotecture has increasingly adopted vertical glazing in many of its newer designs.
Vertical windows offer several advantages:
• Simpler construction
• Lower cost
• Easier waterproofing
• Easier shading with eaves and awnings
• Better compatibility with standard window systems
• Improved compliance with many modern building requirements
For these reasons, many contemporary Earthships now use vertical glazing rather than heavily sloped greenhouse windows.
The ideal window angle depends on your climate, site conditions, design goals, and budget.
An Earthship in cold Tasmania may benefit from a different glazing strategy than an Earthship in Adelaide, Perth, or tropical Queensland.
As with many aspects of Earthship design, the key is to design for the climate rather than simply copying an Earthship from another part of the world.
If in doubt, vertical windows are often the simplest, most economical, and most practical solution for Australian Earthships.
This design evolved in response to the cold, sunny, high-altitude desert climate of the American Southwest.
In very cold climates, sloping windows can offer several advantages:
• Increased solar heat gain during winter
• More sunlight reaching the indoor garden
• Improved passive solar performance
• Reduced shadowing within the greenhouse
The result is a greenhouse that captures large amounts of winter sunlight and contributes to heating the home.
However, what works well in one climate may not work well in another.
In Australia, excessive solar gain is often a greater concern than insufficient solar gain. In many parts of the country, overheating during summer is a bigger challenge than keeping warm during winter.
For this reason, sloping windows may not always be the best solution for Australian conditions.
Potential disadvantages of sloping windows include:
• Increased summer heat gain
• More difficult shading design
• Higher construction costs
• More complex waterproofing details
• More difficult cleaning and maintenance
• Possible limitations on glass or glazing warranties
As Earthship designs have evolved, Earthship Biotecture has increasingly adopted vertical glazing in many of its newer designs.
Vertical windows offer several advantages:
• Simpler construction
• Lower cost
• Easier waterproofing
• Easier shading with eaves and awnings
• Better compatibility with standard window systems
• Improved compliance with many modern building requirements
For these reasons, many contemporary Earthships now use vertical glazing rather than heavily sloped greenhouse windows.
The ideal window angle depends on your climate, site conditions, design goals, and budget.
An Earthship in cold Tasmania may benefit from a different glazing strategy than an Earthship in Adelaide, Perth, or tropical Queensland.
As with many aspects of Earthship design, the key is to design for the climate rather than simply copying an Earthship from another part of the world.
If in doubt, vertical windows are often the simplest, most economical, and most practical solution for Australian Earthships.
I don't like the look of earthships - can they look different?
Absolutely.
Many people have a particular image in mind when they hear the word "Earthship"—curved walls, bottle windows, colourful render, and unusual architectural forms. While these features can be part of an Earthship, they are not essential.
What really defines an Earthship is how it performs, not how it looks.
To function properly, an Earthship generally needs:
• A large glazed area facing north (in the Southern Hemisphere)
• Thermal mass to store heat and stabilise indoor temperatures
• An earth berm at the rear (south side) and ideally the east and west ends
• Good solar access
• Systems for renewable energy, water harvesting, and wastewater recycling
These are the fundamental "bones" of the building. They exist for a reason and contribute directly to comfort, resilience, and self-sufficiency.
However, beyond these core principles there is enormous freedom in how an Earthship looks.
For example, an Earthship can have:
• A modern architectural appearance
• A traditional rural appearance
• A farmhouse style
• A contemporary minimalist style
• A rustic natural-building aesthetic
• Curved or straight walls
• Skillion, gable, or earth-covered roofs
• Conventional or unconventional finishes
Likewise, the interior can be tailored to your preferences.
You might choose:
• Crisp white walls and clean modern finishes
• Smooth earth renders
• Textured natural renders
• Timber features
• Stone finishes
• Exposed structural elements
• Bottle walls and artistic details
Or none of the above.
Many visitors to Earthship homes are surprised to discover that some Earthships look quite conventional from the outside and feel much like any other well-designed home on the inside.
The goal is not to make your home look unusual. The goal is to create a beautiful, comfortable, sustainable home that reflects your personality while delivering exceptional performance.
In many ways, Earthships are like people. They all share the same basic anatomy, but they can have very different appearances.
Design can be flexible. Physics is less negotiable.
The challenge is finding the right balance between aesthetics and performance, and that's where good design becomes important.
Many people have a particular image in mind when they hear the word "Earthship"—curved walls, bottle windows, colourful render, and unusual architectural forms. While these features can be part of an Earthship, they are not essential.
What really defines an Earthship is how it performs, not how it looks.
To function properly, an Earthship generally needs:
• A large glazed area facing north (in the Southern Hemisphere)
• Thermal mass to store heat and stabilise indoor temperatures
• An earth berm at the rear (south side) and ideally the east and west ends
• Good solar access
• Systems for renewable energy, water harvesting, and wastewater recycling
These are the fundamental "bones" of the building. They exist for a reason and contribute directly to comfort, resilience, and self-sufficiency.
However, beyond these core principles there is enormous freedom in how an Earthship looks.
For example, an Earthship can have:
• A modern architectural appearance
• A traditional rural appearance
• A farmhouse style
• A contemporary minimalist style
• A rustic natural-building aesthetic
• Curved or straight walls
• Skillion, gable, or earth-covered roofs
• Conventional or unconventional finishes
Likewise, the interior can be tailored to your preferences.
You might choose:
• Crisp white walls and clean modern finishes
• Smooth earth renders
• Textured natural renders
• Timber features
• Stone finishes
• Exposed structural elements
• Bottle walls and artistic details
Or none of the above.
Many visitors to Earthship homes are surprised to discover that some Earthships look quite conventional from the outside and feel much like any other well-designed home on the inside.
The goal is not to make your home look unusual. The goal is to create a beautiful, comfortable, sustainable home that reflects your personality while delivering exceptional performance.
In many ways, Earthships are like people. They all share the same basic anatomy, but they can have very different appearances.
Design can be flexible. Physics is less negotiable.
The challenge is finding the right balance between aesthetics and performance, and that's where good design becomes important.
Miscellaneous
Are Earthships built entirely with natural and recycled materials?
No.
This is one of the most common misconceptions about Earthships.
Earthships typically incorporate a large amount of recycled and natural materials, but they are not built entirely from recycled materials.
Like any modern home, Earthships must comply with building regulations, engineering requirements, bushfire requirements, and practical considerations. As a result, new materials are often required alongside recycled and natural materials.
Common recycled materials used in Earthships include:
• Waste tyres
• Glass bottles
• Aluminium cans
• Reclaimed timber
• Salvaged doors and windows
• Recycled bricks and pavers
• Reused building materials
However, most Earthships will also require new materials such as:
• Cement and concrete
• Reinforcing steel
• Plumbing pipes and fittings
• Electrical cables and components
• Waterproofing membranes
• Insulation products
• Roofing materials
• Fasteners and fixings
• New windows and glazing in many situations
In bushfire-prone areas, for example, it is often necessary to use new toughened glazing and other compliant building products. These materials can be difficult to source second-hand and may need to meet specific regulatory requirements.
Similarly, buried plumbing, electrical systems, waterproofing components, and structural elements are generally best installed using new materials to maximise reliability and longevity.
Can I Use More Salvaged Materials?
Absolutely.
If you are resourceful and prepared to invest time and effort, salvaged materials can reduce costs and environmental impacts while adding character to your home.
However, there are some practical challenges:
• Materials must be sourced before they are needed
• Storage space is required
• Materials often need cleaning, repairing, or preparation
• Quantities may be limited
• The design may need to be adapted to suit available materials
For example, reclaimed timber may require nails to be removed, old flooring may need cleaning and preparation, and salvaged windows may need refurbishment before installation.
The most successful salvage projects are usually those where the materials are identified early enough to be incorporated into the design rather than trying to redesign the building around unexpected finds later in the process.
Earthships are not about using recycled materials at any cost.
They are about using materials intelligently and responsibly.
The goal is to maximise the use of local, recycled, natural, and low-impact materials wherever practical while still creating a durable, comfortable, code-compliant home.
Salvaging materials requires extra effort, but many Earthship owners find it to be one of the most rewarding parts of the building journey.
This is one of the most common misconceptions about Earthships.
Earthships typically incorporate a large amount of recycled and natural materials, but they are not built entirely from recycled materials.
Like any modern home, Earthships must comply with building regulations, engineering requirements, bushfire requirements, and practical considerations. As a result, new materials are often required alongside recycled and natural materials.
Common recycled materials used in Earthships include:
• Waste tyres
• Glass bottles
• Aluminium cans
• Reclaimed timber
• Salvaged doors and windows
• Recycled bricks and pavers
• Reused building materials
However, most Earthships will also require new materials such as:
• Cement and concrete
• Reinforcing steel
• Plumbing pipes and fittings
• Electrical cables and components
• Waterproofing membranes
• Insulation products
• Roofing materials
• Fasteners and fixings
• New windows and glazing in many situations
In bushfire-prone areas, for example, it is often necessary to use new toughened glazing and other compliant building products. These materials can be difficult to source second-hand and may need to meet specific regulatory requirements.
Similarly, buried plumbing, electrical systems, waterproofing components, and structural elements are generally best installed using new materials to maximise reliability and longevity.
Can I Use More Salvaged Materials?
Absolutely.
If you are resourceful and prepared to invest time and effort, salvaged materials can reduce costs and environmental impacts while adding character to your home.
However, there are some practical challenges:
• Materials must be sourced before they are needed
• Storage space is required
• Materials often need cleaning, repairing, or preparation
• Quantities may be limited
• The design may need to be adapted to suit available materials
For example, reclaimed timber may require nails to be removed, old flooring may need cleaning and preparation, and salvaged windows may need refurbishment before installation.
The most successful salvage projects are usually those where the materials are identified early enough to be incorporated into the design rather than trying to redesign the building around unexpected finds later in the process.
Earthships are not about using recycled materials at any cost.
They are about using materials intelligently and responsibly.
The goal is to maximise the use of local, recycled, natural, and low-impact materials wherever practical while still creating a durable, comfortable, code-compliant home.
Salvaging materials requires extra effort, but many Earthship owners find it to be one of the most rewarding parts of the building journey.
How many earthships are in australia?
How Many Earthships Are There in Australia?
The exact number depends on how you define an Earthship, but there are currently thought to be approximately 15 Earthships and Earthship-inspired buildings in Australia that have either been completed or are under construction.
These projects are spread across several states and territories and range from small owner-builder projects through to larger custom-designed homes.
Examples include projects in:
• South Australia
• Victoria
• New South Wales
• Tasmania
• Western Australia
Earthship Ironbank, completed in South Australia, was Australia's first approved Earthship and helped demonstrate that Earthship concepts could be successfully adapted to Australian building regulations, climates, and conditions.
Since then, a growing number of projects have been approved and constructed around the country, including Earthships and Earthship-inspired homes in locations such as Goolwa, Inman Valley, Narara, Kinglake, Brooks Bay, East Augusta, Jurien Bay, and Marulan.
While 15 projects may not sound like many, it is worth remembering that Earthships are still a niche form of housing in Australia. Conventional housing has had more than a century of mainstream development, whereas Australian Earthships are still relatively new.
Interest in Earthships continues to grow as people look for homes that offer:
• Lower running costs
• Greater self-sufficiency
• Bushfire resilience
• Reduced environmental impact
• Improved thermal comfort
• Independence from utility networks
Earthship Eco Homes has played a significant role in introducing and adapting Earthship concepts for Australian conditions and continues to work on projects across the country.
Although there are only a relatively small number of Earthships in Australia today, the number continues to increase as more people discover that Earthships can be approved, financed, insured, and successfully built in Australia.
The exact number depends on how you define an Earthship, but there are currently thought to be approximately 15 Earthships and Earthship-inspired buildings in Australia that have either been completed or are under construction.
These projects are spread across several states and territories and range from small owner-builder projects through to larger custom-designed homes.
Examples include projects in:
• South Australia
• Victoria
• New South Wales
• Tasmania
• Western Australia
Earthship Ironbank, completed in South Australia, was Australia's first approved Earthship and helped demonstrate that Earthship concepts could be successfully adapted to Australian building regulations, climates, and conditions.
Since then, a growing number of projects have been approved and constructed around the country, including Earthships and Earthship-inspired homes in locations such as Goolwa, Inman Valley, Narara, Kinglake, Brooks Bay, East Augusta, Jurien Bay, and Marulan.
While 15 projects may not sound like many, it is worth remembering that Earthships are still a niche form of housing in Australia. Conventional housing has had more than a century of mainstream development, whereas Australian Earthships are still relatively new.
Interest in Earthships continues to grow as people look for homes that offer:
• Lower running costs
• Greater self-sufficiency
• Bushfire resilience
• Reduced environmental impact
• Improved thermal comfort
• Independence from utility networks
Earthship Eco Homes has played a significant role in introducing and adapting Earthship concepts for Australian conditions and continues to work on projects across the country.
Although there are only a relatively small number of Earthships in Australia today, the number continues to increase as more people discover that Earthships can be approved, financed, insured, and successfully built in Australia.
Is everything I read about Earthships on the internet true?
No.
Like many unconventional building systems, Earthships attract both enthusiastic supporters and passionate critics. As a result, there is a great deal of information online, ranging from excellent technical resources through to misunderstandings, outdated information, and occasionally outright misinformation.
When researching Earthships, it is important to ask:
• What climate was the Earthship designed for?
• When was the information published?
• Was the author speaking from direct experience?
• Does the information relate to Australian conditions and regulations?
• Is the criticism based on evidence or opinion?
One of the challenges is that Earthship designs have evolved significantly over the past 50 years. Information that was accurate for an experimental Earthship built in New Mexico decades ago may not accurately describe modern Earthships being designed and built today.
Another challenge is that some critics assess Earthships without fully understanding how the systems work or how they have been adapted for different climates and regulatory environments.
For example, it is sometimes claimed that:
• Tyre walls are not structural
• Earthships cannot meet building regulations
• Earthships cannot achieve acceptable energy performance
• Wastewater is treated inside the walls
• Earthships are impossible to insure
These claims are often based on misunderstandings, outdated examples, or assumptions that do not reflect modern Earthship practice.
Like any building system, Earthships are not perfect. They have strengths, weaknesses, costs, compromises, and limitations. A fair assessment should acknowledge both the advantages and the challenges.
The best way to evaluate Earthships is to:
• Visit one if possible
• Speak with Earthship owners
• Talk to designers, builders, and engineers who have direct experience
• Read a variety of sources
• Ask questions
• Consider how the design applies to your specific climate and site
Earthship Eco Homes encourages prospective clients to be sceptical, do their own research, and ask difficult questions.
The goal is not to convince everyone that Earthships are perfect.
The goal is to understand what Earthships do well, where they may need adaptation, and whether they are the right solution for your particular needs.
Like many unconventional building systems, Earthships attract both enthusiastic supporters and passionate critics. As a result, there is a great deal of information online, ranging from excellent technical resources through to misunderstandings, outdated information, and occasionally outright misinformation.
When researching Earthships, it is important to ask:
• What climate was the Earthship designed for?
• When was the information published?
• Was the author speaking from direct experience?
• Does the information relate to Australian conditions and regulations?
• Is the criticism based on evidence or opinion?
One of the challenges is that Earthship designs have evolved significantly over the past 50 years. Information that was accurate for an experimental Earthship built in New Mexico decades ago may not accurately describe modern Earthships being designed and built today.
Another challenge is that some critics assess Earthships without fully understanding how the systems work or how they have been adapted for different climates and regulatory environments.
For example, it is sometimes claimed that:
• Tyre walls are not structural
• Earthships cannot meet building regulations
• Earthships cannot achieve acceptable energy performance
• Wastewater is treated inside the walls
• Earthships are impossible to insure
These claims are often based on misunderstandings, outdated examples, or assumptions that do not reflect modern Earthship practice.
Like any building system, Earthships are not perfect. They have strengths, weaknesses, costs, compromises, and limitations. A fair assessment should acknowledge both the advantages and the challenges.
The best way to evaluate Earthships is to:
• Visit one if possible
• Speak with Earthship owners
• Talk to designers, builders, and engineers who have direct experience
• Read a variety of sources
• Ask questions
• Consider how the design applies to your specific climate and site
Earthship Eco Homes encourages prospective clients to be sceptical, do their own research, and ask difficult questions.
The goal is not to convince everyone that Earthships are perfect.
The goal is to understand what Earthships do well, where they may need adaptation, and whether they are the right solution for your particular needs.