Businesses at Brisbane’s popular Howard Smith Wharves under the Story Bridge have been constructing buildings without council approval.

Brisbane City Council confirmed several complaints had been made over the construction of bars and pop-up food venues in areas designated as drop-off and loading zones.

Some of the building work at Howard Smith Wharves that's being questioned by Brisbane City Council. This space is zoned as a set-down area, according to planners. Credit:Tony Moore

"The site lessee at Howard Smith Wharves has been approached by Brisbane City Council about works undertaken on the site without the correct approvals," a spokeswoman confirmed.

"Council is now in discussion with the applicant to rectify the issues and to obtain the correct approvals, or remove unapproved structures."