Building Permit (WA)
What a building permit does, when it’s required, and how it fits into the WA owner-builder process.
General information only. Always confirm requirements with the relevant permit authority for your project.
In 30 seconds
- A building permit authorises construction work to start.
- It is separate from planning approval and owner-builder approval.
- The permit sets mandatory inspection stages.
- Work must follow the approved plans — changes usually require approval.
What is a building permit?
A building permit is formal approval to carry out building work in accordance with approved plans, specifications, and the Building Code requirements that apply in Western Australia.
In practice, the permit confirms:
- The work can legally commence
- The approved plans and documents that must be followed
- The inspections that must occur during construction
What a building permit does not replace
- Planning approval (if required for your site)
- Owner-Builder Approval (if required)
- Trade licensing requirements (electrical, plumbing, gas, etc.)
Common trap
Getting a building permit does not mean “all approvals are done”.
Each approval sits at a different point in the process.
Inspections and compliance
The building permit defines the mandatory inspection stages. These inspections must occur before work progresses beyond each stage.
- Inspections are usually tied to footing, slab, framing, and completion stages
- Work should not proceed past an inspection point without approval
- Evidence (photos, certificates) often supports inspections
Practical advice
Get the inspection schedule early and share it with trades so timing issues don’t stall the project.
Where the building permit fits in the WA process
- Decide if owner-building is suitable
- Confirm Owner-Builder Approval (if required)
- Confirm planning approval (if required)
- Obtain a building permit
- Commence work and follow inspections
Related WA pages