Development Applications

Most new homes, extensions and changes to a property in Western Australia need development approval from the local government before work starts. Saltbush Planning prepares and lodges applications, and manages them through assessment to a decision.

What is included

Checking whether your proposal needs approval, and what the R-Codes and local planning policies require. Preparing the application, plans review and supporting planning report. Lodging with the local government and responding to requests for further information. Negotiating design changes where a variation is needed.

Common projects

New dwellings, grouped dwellings and multiple dwellings. Additions, second storeys and outbuildings. Variations to setbacks, open space, visual privacy and similar R-Codes requirements. Demolition and change of use.

The development approval process

1Check the planning framework

Zoning, R-Code, local planning scheme and policies, structure plans, heritage and bushfire. PlanWA and the council's website are good starting points.

2Design and early advice

Concept plans checked against the R-Codes and local policies. A pre-lodgement meeting with the council can flag issues early.

Does it need development approval?
NO

Exempt

Usually a single house that meets every deemed-to-comply requirement, with no heritage or other special controls. You can ask the council to confirm this in writing within 14 days. Then go straight to the building process.

YES

Development application needed

Continue with the steps below.

3Prepare the application

Application form signed by the owner, plans, a planning report or justification for any variations, and the application fee.

4Lodge

With the local government. Larger projects may be decided by a Development Assessment Panel.

5Assessment

Checked against the scheme, R-Codes and local policies. Referred to agencies where needed, such as for bushfire, heritage, roads or water.

More information

The council may ask for more details or changes. A quick reply keeps things moving.

6Advertising, if required

Neighbours and others may be invited to comment, usually for 14 days, where the proposal varies the requirements or the scheme requires it.

7Decision

Made by council officers, a council meeting or a Development Assessment Panel. The statutory timeframe is 60 days, or 90 days if advertised. Decisions may take longer than this, for reasons outside the applicant's control.

APPROVED

8Approval and conditions

Some conditions must be cleared before a building permit is issued. Approval usually lasts two years to substantially start the work.

REFUSED

Refused or not decided?

You can apply to the State Administrative Tribunal for a review within 28 days, or amend the proposal and apply again. No decision in time counts as a refusal.

Building process

Building permit, construction and inspections, through your builder and the local government's building team.

General guide only. Timeframes are statutory and local requirements vary.

Talk through your options

Whether you are unsure if your project needs approval or have plans ready to lodge, get in touch to discuss the options and request a quote. Include the property address and a short description of what you would like to build.

Request a quote