Do I need Shire approvals for my project?
If you are building, developing or changing the way you use your land, you may need Planning, Building or Health approvals before you start work.
STEP 1: Call, email or come in to see our friendly Planning & Development Services team
We can help you to:
- Find and address potential issues early
- Understand the information you will need to apply
- Navigate the approvals process and know what to expect
Call our team on (08) 9892 1111, email [email protected] or come in and see us at the Shire's administration office (22-24 Lowood Road, Mount Barker).
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Planning Approval
Planning approval (also called ‘development approval’) is a way of making sure that the use or development of land fits into its surroundings.
The rules that apply depend on the 'zoning' of the land in our Local Planning Scheme.
Many types of common development can skip this step - contact us to find out whether your project needs planning approval.
If you are ready to apply please fill out the following forms:
Please prepare full plans and details in accordance with the checklist and only put in your application when all of your information is ready. We are unable to start processing your application until all of the required information is provided and application fees paid.
Applications can be made via email, post or in person.
- Email [email protected] to the attention of Planning Services (preferred method)
- In person at 22-24 Lowood Road, Mount Barker WA 6324 (preference for A3 plans)
- Post to PO Box 48, Mount Barker WA 6324 (preference for A3 plans).
Standard applications are processed within 60 days. Applications that are required to be advertised are processed within 90 days.
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Building Approval
Your project will need a Building Permit if it includes construction work that is:
- More than $20,000 (including all materials, labour and equipment)
- For a structure more than 2.4m in height or 10m2 in floor area
The purpose of a Building Permit is to verify that your construction will comply with the standards of the National Construction Codes.
Plans provided to us need to show a high level of details and specifications.
You can choose whether to have your plans ‘certified’ by a qualified building surveyor before applying, or we can do this for you in most cases.
More information and application forms can be found by clicking here.
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Wastewater Management Systems
If there is a sewer system available to your property please contact the Water Corporation for information about how to connect.
If there is no sewer system available to your property and you need to install your own wastewater management system (eg. septic tanks or secondary treatment system) you will need Shire approval before starting work.
Only wastewater management systems that are approved by the WA Department of Health can be used.
The type of system you will need depends on the site and soil conditions.
Contact your plumber (or approved installer) to help put together the information you will need.
More information and application forms can be found by clicking here.
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Food & Beverage Businesses
Want to run a business that involves making or selling food or drinks?
Under State laws you need to register as a food business and meet certain training, premises and food handling standards.
The standards that apply vary according to the risk level of the food business (eg. what is involved in the preparation process and how likely the risks of contamination or illness are for certain types of food and drinks).
If you business involves the preparation or sale of alcohol you may also need to apply for a liquor license from the WA State Government (Department of Local Government, Commerce, Industry Regulation and Safety).
More information and application forms can be found by clicking here.
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Crossovers (driveways)
A ‘crossover’ is the part of your driveway that is on the road verge.
Constructing a crossover needs Shire approval because the road verge is public land.
When you apply, we will assess the location (whether road safety standards are met) and the construction standard (including drainage).
You may be eligible for a subsidy (cash back) when applying to build the first crossover to your property.
More information and application forms can be found by clicking here.