What Needs Building Approval or Council Permits in WA?
Council planning approval and building permits apply to different types of construction and renovation projects. Whether a bathroom renovation or an extension, it’s important to be clear on which approvals and permits are required in WA to avoid costly penalties or delays later on.
This guide explains the types of council approvals in Western Australia and when permits are required.
What Are The Types of Council Approval?
Planning approval
Planning approval is required when changes are made to the appearance or use of a property. Each WA council has specific rules for property design within the local planning scheme. Planning approval evaluates the impact of the proposed work on neighbours and ensures compliance with the Residential Design Codes (R-Codes). Projects such as adding a storey, extending the building, or construction close to the property boundary may require planning approval.
Building permit
A building permit is required when the works may affect the building’s safety. All construction in Australia must comply with the Building Code of Australia, the Building Act 2011 and the Building Regulations 2012.
There are two primary building permits: Certified (BA1) and Uncertified (BA2).
A certified building permit (BA1) requires homeowners to hire a surveyor, usually for complex or time-sensitive projects like a full home renovation. Uncertified building permits (BA2) can be submitted by homeowners and are suitable for small-scale, non-structural renovations.
Council Approval Requirements for Common Projects
Contractors may take 1-2 days to prepare the laundry room for renovation, including demolition work such as removing appliances, dismantling old cabinetry, and tearing down tiling and walls.
| Type of Building Project | Is Council Approval Required? | Considerations |
| Full home renovation/New home build | Highly likely | Will require detailed building plans and a certified building permit (BA1) |
| Single room renovation | Most likely | Structural alterations, like removing a wall, will usually require a building permit |
| Swimming pools/pool fences | Very Likely | Strict regulations for pools and pool fences due to safety considerations |
| Home extensions | Likely | Planning approval may be required to ensure the extension is within the property boundaries |
| Secondary structures (e.g. garages, granny flats) | Likely | Planning approval and building permits are required to ensure size, boundaries, and utility connections are within limits |
| Cosmetic renovation | Unlikely | Painting and installing cabinetry do not usually require approval |
Full home renovations
Full home renovations that involve removing internal walls, increasing the number of rooms, or extending the building and roofline will require a building permit. Planning approval may also be required if the work involves significant changes to the facade of the building or impacts surrounding properties.
Bathroom renovations
Minor cosmetic updates, like replacing a vanity or retiling, do not require council approval. Relocating plumbing, changing drainage, removing walls, or altering windows will generally require a building permit. Waterproofing work will also require council approval as the work must meet Australian Standards.
Kitchen renovations
Kitchen renovations such as replacing cabinetry, benchtops, or appliances will not require council approval – only structural changes, such as the removal of walls for an open plan conversion, will require a building permit. Repositioning plumbing and electrical access will also require council approval.
Laundry renovations
Cosmetic changes to laundry fittings do not require council approval. Laundry renovation projects that involve relocating the laundry to another room in the house will require plumbing and electrical work, which will require a building permit.
How Long Does It Take To Obtain Council Approval?
The application timelines for council approval are the same across all Councils and Local Government Areas in Western Australia. Under the Building Act 2011:
- Certified building permits take up to 10 business days
- Uncertified building permits take up to 25 business days
- Planning approval can take up to 60 days, with more complex plans requiring neighbour consultation taking up to 90 days
The key to successfully getting the council approval for your home renovation is working with a renovation specialist familiar and experienced in the local application process. Perth renovation experts like Venaso Selections can provide advice on whether planning approval or a building permit is required for the project.
If your house extension in Perth requires council approval, Venaso Selections handles the application process on your behalf. This includes drawing up detailed plans, filling out the required paperwork, and submitting the application to the local council in advance to minimise delays.