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Planning Approvals (WA)

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In Western Australia, some residential projects require planning approval from the local council — others don’t. Knowing which applies early can save weeks of redesign and delay.

In 30 seconds

  • Planning approval is handled by your local government (council).
  • Not all projects need planning approval — it depends on zoning and local planning rules.
  • Planning approval is separate from a building permit.
  • If planning approval is required, it must be obtained before a building permit is issued.

What is planning approval?

Planning approval is the process where the local council assesses whether a proposed development is allowed under planning schemes, zoning controls, and any applicable local policies.

It focuses on how the development fits the area — not how it is structurally built.

When planning approval is commonly required

  • New dwellings in zones that require approval
  • Extensions that exceed height, setback, or site coverage controls
  • Development affected by overlays or special controls
  • Changes that impact streetscape or neighbouring properties
Important
Each council applies planning rules differently. Always check requirements for your specific address — not just “similar projects”.

What planning approval does not cover

  • Structural design or engineering compliance
  • Construction methods
  • Building Code compliance
  • Inspection stages

These are addressed later through the building permit process.

Common planning approval mistakes

  • Assuming planning approval isn’t needed because “it’s just a renovation”
  • Designing plans before checking zoning or local controls
  • Confusing planning approval with a building permit
  • Underestimating council response time and redesign requests

Where planning approval fits in the WA owner-builder process

  1. Decide if owner-building is suitable
  2. Confirm whether Owner-Builder Approval is required
  3. Check whether planning approval applies
  4. Obtain a building permit
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