Building Permits
About Building Permits
In Western Australia, building permits are governed by the Building Act 2011 and the Building Regulations 2012. A building permit is required for most types of building work, including but not limited to:
- Construction or placement of new buildings
- Renovations, alterations, or repairs
- Site works such as excavation or changes to ground levels
- Residential dwellings and additions
- Commercial buildings, including internal fit-outs and refurbishments
- Carports, sheds, garages, and workshops
- Patios, verandas, decking, and gazebos
- Swimming pools (in-ground, above-ground, and inflatable) and spas
- Rainwater tanks with a capacity over 5,000 litres
- Retaining walls over 500mm in height
- Front fences (must also comply with the Shire’s Fencing Local Law)
Exemptions may apply under Schedule 4, Part 2 of the Building Regulations 2012. It is recommended to consult the legislation or contact the Shire for clarification on specific exemptions
Who Can Apply for a Building Permit?
Anyone can apply for a building permit—this includes the property owner, builder, architect, or building surveyor. The application must clearly identify the person responsible for the construction. The nominated builder is legally responsible for ensuring the work complies with the approved plans and relevant building standards.
The building commission website contains a lot of helpful information regarding building work; several are listed below:
Types of Building Permit Applications.
There are two main types of building permit applications:
1. Certified Building Permit Application (Form BA1)
- Prepared by a private building surveyor (not the Shire).
- Must include a Certificate of Design Compliance.
- Can be used for any class of building or incidental structure.
- The Shire has 10 business days to assess and decide on the application.
- Mandatory for Class 1b and Class 2–9 buildings (typically commercial).
- Optional for Class 1a (residential dwellings) and Class 10 (non-habitable structures).
Note: A structural engineer’s certification is not the same as a building surveyor’s certification.
2. Uncertified Building Permit Application (Form BA2)
- Submitted directly to the Shire without a Certificate of Design Compliance.
- Only applicable for Class 1a and Class 10 buildings.
- The Shire’s building surveyor will assess the plans and issue the Certificate of Design Compliance.
- The Shire has 25 business days to determine the application.
Understanding Building Classes
Knowing your building’s classification is essential for determining the correct application process. Common classes include:
- Class 1a – Residential dwellings (e.g., houses)
- Class 10a – Non-habitable structures (e.g., sheds, garages, patios)
- Class 10b – Other structures (e.g., fences, retaining walls, swimming pools)
For a full list of building classes, visit the WA Building and Energy website.
Applying for a Building Permit
To lodge a building permit application, including access to all required forms and supporting documents, please visit Lodging a Building Permit or contact the Building Services team.
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Additional Resources
- Building Information Sheets – Covering topics like stormwater management, water tanks, and unauthorised structures.
- Building and Planning Contacts Guide – A directory of local professionals including surveyors, draftspersons, and bushfire consultants.
- Licensed Building Practitioners – Official register of qualified builders and surveyors.