Published on Monday, 28 July 2025 at 12:00:00 AM
The Shire has prepared Draft Local Planning Policy #8 to reduce approval requirements for the development of new dams.
Under existing rules, planning approval is required for the development of all new dams.
The aim of this policy is to remove the requirement for planning approval for dams that meet identified acceptable development standards.
Dams that meet these standards can proceed without planning approval. Other dams may be considered subject to planning assessment against the criteria outlined in the policy.
The policy is weighted towards supporting dams on rural land for productive land uses ahead of aesthetic water features on lifestyle properties.
The policy does not take a position on water availability within a catchment area (this is managed by the State Government in certain areas only).
Please refer to the following documents for further information:
Draft Local Planning Policy No. 8 – Dams & Water Features
Draft Information Brochure – Dams & Water Features
Council Report & Attachments
Feedback is welcome by email to [email protected] or post to PO Box 48 Mount Barker WA 6324 by 4.15pm on 25 August 2025.
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