Do I Need Council Approval? A Complete Guide to Perth Building Regulations

You have an idea about adding a new patio, extending your home, or even rebuilding it in case you think it is a renovation. Then there’s murmuring from a neighbour about council approval, and you start to doubt yourself. You can’t help but think, “Do I need council permission Perth?” Thousands of building compliance checks are done each year in Western Australia, and unapproved work is one of the most common issues flagged during inspections and property sales. 

So, do you need approval for your project, and what happens if you skip it? This guide explains Perth’s approval system, when permits apply, the costs involved, the risks of non-compliance, and how to navigate the process confidently.

Understanding the Two Types of Approvals in Perth

In Perth, building work is governed by two separate but closely related approval systems. Many homeowners confuse them or assume one covers everything. In reality, each approval serves a different purpose, and some projects require both. Understanding the distinction early can save time, money, and frustration later.

Planning Approval (Development Approval)

Planning approval controls what you can build. It is governed by your local council’s planning scheme and policies. Councils assess zoning requirements, land use compliance, building height limits, setbacks from boundaries, streetscape impact, and how the proposal fits neighbourhood character. Even a well-built structure can be refused if it does not comply with planning controls.

Building Permit

A building permit Perth controls how you build. It is regulated under the Building Act 2011 and Building Regulations 2012. The focus is on safety and compliance with construction standards. Councils assess structural integrity, fire safety provisions, and energy efficiency under the Building Code of Australia and adherence to Australian Standards.

When You Need Both

Some projects trigger both approvals to obtain a valid construction certificate Perth. Heritage properties often require planning approval before a building permit is considered. Complex residential extensions and most commercial developments usually need planning consent first, followed by a building permit. Practical tip: always check with your local Perth council first. Boda’s design, drafting & permits in Perth service handles both approvals to avoid gaps or delays.

When Do You Need Council Approval in Perth?

Approval requirements for an architecture plan for council Perth depend on the nature, size, and impact of your project. While some works are clearly regulated, others fall into grey areas that cause confusion for homeowners.

Projects That Always Require Approval

Projects That Might Need Approval

Approval depends on size, location, and construction details. A preliminary planning assessment Perth might be required to approve the following:

• Decks and verandahs, depending on height and size
• Garden sheds, typically over 10 square metres
• Fencing, subject to height and material rules
• Outdoor kitchens connected to utilities
• Patios and pergolas with structural elements

Pro Tip: When in doubt, contact your local council about Perth building regulations. Asking early is far better than facing penalties later. 

Exempt Work Under Schedule 4

Some work is generally exempt from council and building permit requirements WA, provided standards are met.

• Routine maintenance and repairs
• Non-structural home renovations Perth, such as painting or flooring
• Like-for-like fixture replacement
• Minor repairs 
• Temporary structures under one month on private residential land

Note: Even if exempt, Section 37(2) of the Building Act requires all work to comply with building standards. Exemption does not mean ignoring regulations.

The Serious Consequences of Building Without Approval

The council approval requirements might make it seem tempting to skip the whole process. But the consequences can be severe and long-lasting.

Legal Penalties

Individuals in Western Australia can face fines of up to $50,000. Councils may issue stop-work orders that immediately halt construction and can prosecute breaches under the Building Act 2011.

Property Sale Complications

Unapproved works are often discovered during buyer due diligence. Without proper certificates, buyers may struggle to secure finance, property values can drop, and sales may be delayed or fall through entirely.

Insurance Nightmares

Insurance claims related to unapproved structures are commonly denied. Home insurance policies may be voided, and liability risks increase significantly if someone is injured on your property.

Forced Rectification Costs

Councils can order demolition or require costly residential construction redesigns to meet compliance. Rebuilding, legal fees, fines, and lost materials quickly add up.

Perth Council-Specific Requirements

Each Perth council applies state legislation slightly differently through local planning policies.

City of Perth

Certified applications are typically assessed within 10 business days, while uncertified applications may take up to 25 business days. Heritage areas and inner-city living initiatives often add additional requirements.

City of Joondalup, Gosnells, Nedlands, and others

Processing times, fees, and planning interpretations vary. Councils may apply unique R-Code interpretations and local design policies.

The Building Permit Application Process Step-by-Step

Understanding the process of submitting a development application Perth helps avoid delays and unnecessary stress.

Step 1: Determine What Approvals You Need

Contact your council’s building department, review Schedule 4 exemptions, and identify whether planning approval is required first. Check for heritage, bushfire, or environmental overlays.

Step 2: Choose Your Application Type

Fill out the right application based on the type of building:

• BA1 – Certified Application: Pre-certified by a registered building surveyor. Assessed within 10 business days. Mandatory for Class 2–9 buildings.
• BA2 – Uncertified Application: Council completes full assessment within 25 business days. Available for Class 1 and 10 buildings.

Step 3: Prepare Required Documentation

Include title certificates, detailed plans, site plans, engineering reports, energy assessments, BAL reports if required, completed forms, and fees. Incomplete applications cause most delays.

Step 4: Submit and Track

Submit online where possible, pay fees, and respond quickly to council requests. You can hire experts for council request management for a smooth process. 

Step 5: Assessment and Issuance

Councils review compliance and issue permits with conditions. Permits are valid for two years, and inspections must be scheduled. Keep these permits with you as you might need them to obtain a subdivision certificate Perth. 

Building Permit Costs in Perth (2026)

Understanding costs helps with realistic budgeting. The fee that you need to pay is as follows:

The total cost of obtaining the required approvals for  boutique builders Perth typically ranges between $5,000 and $12,000 for most residential projects, including council permit fees, building surveyor certification, drawings, engineering, and mandatory assessments. Larger extensions, swimming pools, or commercial works may sit at the higher end of this range. 

In contrast, ignoring permits can lead to fines of up to $50,000 for individuals in Western Australia, along with stop-work orders, compulsory rectification, or even demolition of completed work. When added to legal fees, redesign costs, and lost construction time, the financial impact of non-compliance can easily exceed $70,000–$100,000, making proper approvals a far more cost-effective and secure choice.

Common Mistakes Perth Homeowners Make

Many approval issues arise from simple misunderstandings.

Mistake 1: “It’s just a small project”

Many boutique builders Perth might ignore getting permits. But size does not determine permit needs. Impact does.

Mistake 2: Starting before approval

Permits can be refused, forcing completed work to be undone.

Mistake 3: Copying neighbours

Others doing it does not make it legal.

Mistake 4: Incomplete documentation

It triggers avoidable delays.

How Boda Building Group Simplifies Perth Approvals

Navigating approvals can be overwhelming, which is why we manage the entire process for our clients.

• Pre-construction assessment and approval mapping
• Full documentation preparation and submission for design, drafting & permits in Perth
• Direct council coordination
• Inspection scheduling and compliance tracking
• Transparent, all-inclusive pricing

Focus on your project vision while we handle the paperwork maze. Our experience with Perth councils ensures your build moves forward smoothly and compliantly.

Quick Reference Guide

Use this simple checklist to confirm you have covered every approval and compliance step before starting any building project in Perth.

• Contact your local Perth council to verify approval requirements.
• Check Schedule 4 exemptions to confirm whether a permit is required.
• Review your property’s zoning to understand development restrictions.
• Identify special overlays such as heritage, bushfire, or flood-prone areas.
• Determine which approvals are needed: planning approval, building permit, or both.
• Obtain written quotes that clearly include all permit and approval costs.
• Verify your builder’s credentials to ensure they are licensed and insured.
• Clarify who is responsible for managing permits, whether you or your contractor.
• Understand the inspection schedule and required construction checkpoints.
• Confirm permit validity periods, typically two years.
• Plan ahead for an occupancy permit if your project requires one.

Conclusion

Building approvals in Perth are essential safeguards, not red tape. Knowing when you need planning approval, a building permit, or both protects your investment and avoids costly setbacks. Permit fees are minor compared to the financial and legal risks of non-compliance. With the right knowledge and professional support, you can approach your project with confidence, clarity, and complete peace of mind.