Most activities undertaken on your property will fall within the definition of development and require approval from the Shire prior to commencing unless an express exemption applies.

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A development approval is a legal document that provides permission for specified use/s and/or works to be undertaken on a particular piece of land.

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Development includes:

• Excavation works and/or fill including the clearing of native vegetation;

• The erection, construction or demolition of a building or structure;

• Building alterations or additions;

• Establishing a new use or changing the existing use of land and/or buildings thereon;

• The erection, placement and display of advertisements or signs.

 

Development approvals, building permits, demolition permits and on-site effluent disposal system permits require separate applications. In some cases you may require several approvals before commencing and clearing, earthworks, demolition or construction.

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It is important to note failure to seek and obtain development approval prior to the commencement of development is an offence under the Planning and Development Act 2005 and may result in prosecution action, the maximum fines for which are significant.

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It should also be noted there may be scope to prepare and submit an application for retrospective approval for unauthorised development to avoid the risk of prosecution action.

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The Shire engages the services of a professional Town Planner who is available to assist with any enquiries. If you are contemplating undertaking any new development or formalising any unauthorised development you are encouraged to:

a) contact the Town Planner (see contact details below) to discuss your proposal, including the need for approval, the application process, relevant information requirements and application fees payable; and

b) read the additional information, application forms and guidance provided below.