Planning Advice

The planning services team focuses on strategic and statutory planning for the Shire of Waroona. Its primary focus is in the following areas:

  • Review and improvement of the Shire’s local planning framework (local planning scheme, local planning policies, local planning strategy)
  • Assessment of development applications
  • Provision of planning advice to proponents, ratepayers, prospective land purchases and real estate agents
  • Ensure landowners and residents comply with the requirements of the local planning framework
  • Provide advice to the State government on subdivision applications

 

Development Approval

All development (including new land uses) requires development approval unless specifically exempted by legislation. If you plan to build or undertake a new land use on your property, you may need to make an application for development approval. All applications are subject to fees. Some simple forms of development, such as a shed, house or home office, may be exempt from the need to obtain development approval.

Please note that a development approval and a building permit are two separate approvals. It is also likely that any new building work will need a building permit in addition to development approval.

The following is a list of common types of development that require development approval:

  • Single house that does not meet the requirements of the Residential Design Codes
  • Shed that exceeds the maximum size requirements of the Shire’s local planning rules
  • Home business
  • Short term rental accommodation (Air BnB, bed and breakfast, etc.)
  • Building envelope variation
  • Retaining walls over 500mm from natural ground level
  • Stocking of rural residential properties with horses or livestock

Application for development approval form

 

Enquiries can be directed to the Shire’s Development Services team (08) 9733 7800 or email eplanning@waroona.wa.gov.au

 

Frequently Asked Questions 

 

Why do I need development approval?

Generally speaking, development approval is required to ensure the amenity of the area or neighbourhood is not adversely affected by your proposed development and/or land use and to ensure the orderly and proper development of the Shire.

 

How long does it take to get development approval?

From a statutory standpoint the Shire has 60 days to determine a development application if no public consultation is undertaken and 90 days to determine a development application if public consultation is undertaken. The Shire endeavours to determine development applications well within these statutory timeframes.

 

Can I subdivide my lot?

Subdivision of land is dependent upon several factors, including the requirements of the Shire’s local planning scheme, the Residential Design Codes and any relevant planning strategies or structure plans. Subdivision in WA is governed by the Western Australian Planning Commission (WAPC). Subdivision applications are made to the WAPC who then refer applications to the relevant local government for advice. If you are interested in subdividing, please contact the Shire’s development services team.

 

What is a building envelope?

A building envelope is a designated area on a property where buildings are to be contained. These generally apply to rural residential areas within the Shire. The purpose of building envelopes is to cluster development, protect vegetation and other environmental features and address bushfire protection.

Building envelopes are most commonly determined for properties when the land is originally subdivided. Most building envelopes are 2000m² in area.

 

Am I able to modify my allocated building envelope?

You can apply to the Shire to vary the location or shape of your building envelope. Building envelopes are not permitted to be made larger than the original size.  Considerations in assessing an application for the variation of a building envelope includes proposed setbacks, protection of vegetation and amenity and bushfire protection.

 

What size shed can I build on my property?

The Shire has two local planning policies that deal with sheds, depending on whether you live in an urban area or a rural area. The policies contain maximum size standards for sheds, as well as other siting and use requirements.

 

Can I keep livestock on my property?

If you live in a rural residential area you will need development approval to keep livestock on your property. The State government has set stocking rates for properties based on soil types and land size and we generally require you to follow the stocking rate for your property. The shire needs to ensure that overstocking does not occur and may require you to submit a stock management plan with your development application.

The Shire does not generally get involved with stocking on primary producer landholdings. We do not permit stocking within urban areas due to noise and land degradation issues.


Stocking Rate Guidelines