Approval Process

A development approval is a legal document that gives permission for a use or development on a particular piece of land. To obtain a development approval, an application for development approval must be made to the City of South Perth.

Development approvals ensure that development within the City complies with the Town Planning Scheme, Residential Design Codes and other relevant legislation and policies.

Applicants can discuss planning proposals and preliminary plans with the City’s duty Urban Planner to find out more about the process. The duty Urban Planner can advise applicants on a proposed development or land use and the information required to lodge a complete application.

Development approval is required for most building works and/or when changing the use of a site. Applicants must seek approval from the City to:

• Build a single house, grouped dwellings or multiple dwellings
• Extend or alter an existing building (including sheds, patios, garages, carports and satellite dishes)
• Build a replacement structure (for example, an old patio is being dismantled and another patio is being built as a replacement)
• Change the use of the subject property

If you are uncertain whether approval is required for your development, or you have a general planning enquiry, our Urban Planners are available during business hours. Please call 9474 0777 to speak to an Urban Planner or to make an appointment. Alternatively you can visit the Civic Centre between 9.30-10.30am and 3-4pm (no bookings required).