Find out when you need a licence to operate a commercial kennel establishment and how to apply for approval to keep, breed or board multiple dogs on your property.
Requirements
- Development approval for a commercial kennel is always required.
- A commercial kennel is considered to align with the ‘Animal Establishment’ land use within the City’s Local Planning Scheme.
- The scheme defines an Animal Establishment as "premises used for the breeding, boarding, training or caring of animals for commercial purposes but does not include animal husbandry - intensive or veterinary centre."
- Animal establishment land uses can only be considered in the Rural and Rural Resource zones.
How to apply
The following documentation is required:
- A site plan showing the location of each kennel, yard, building, structure and fence;
- Floor plans and elevations of all proposed structures;
- Evidence that you or a nominated person will reside on, or close to, the premises to manage and care for the dogs; and
- An Operational Management Plan addressing:
- Hours of operation and hours of staff supervision;
- Times in which the kennel will be open to the public;
- Number of dogs to be boarded;
- Kennel cleaning regimes;
- Waste management plan;
- Noise management plan; and
- Parking management.
How to submit your application
To apply, choose your preferred method below and remember to submit your supporting documents along with the application form:
- Option 1 – Apply online (preferred): Apply through the online lodgement portal.
- Option 2 – In person: Download and complete the Application Form PDF (see below), then submit it with all supporting documentation including the checklist at the City of Wanneroo Civic Centre, 23 Dundebar Road, Wanneroo. Business hours are Monday-Friday, 8.30am-5pm.
- Option 3 – By post: Download and complete the Application Form PDF (see below), then mail it with all supporting documentation including the checklist to City of Wanneroo, Locked Bag 1, Wanneroo WA 6946.
Fees
Planning assessment timeframes
The City of Wanneroo assesses planning (development) applications, within the following timeframes:
- Up to 60 days for most applications.
- Up to 90 days if public consultation (advertising to neighbours) is required.
In many cases, straightforward applications that meet all planning requirements are approved sooner than these timeframes. The assessment timeframe begins after:
- You have submitted a complete application.
- The City formally accepts it for assessment.
Planning approval (if required) must be issued before you can apply for a building permit.
Documents to prepare
For detailed information, including the application process, timeframe, and fees, refer to Building Permit page.
How to submit your application
You can submit your Building Permit application:
- Option 1 – Apply online (preferred): Apply through the online lodgement portal.
- Option 2 – In person: With all supporting documentation at the City of Wanneroo Civic Centre, 23 Dundebar Road, Wanneroo. Business hours are Monday-Friday, 8.30am-5pm.
- Option 3 – By mail: With all supporting documentation to City of Wanneroo, Locked Bag 1, Wanneroo WA 6946.
Note: All owners of the land must be listed on the application.
Fees
Timeframes
- Certified applications: within 10 business days
- Uncertified applications: within 25 business days
If further information is required, you will be contacted. The requested information must be provided within 21 days or within an agreed timeframe.
You need a licence if you plan to keep, breed or board multiple dogs for commercial purposes, or to keep more dogs on a property than is otherwise allowed.
A Commercial Kennel Establishment Licence is required for any premises used for the breeding, boarding or commercial keeping of dogs.
Operating without a valid licence is an offence and may result in penalties.
How to apply
Apply online using the link below.
When you apply, you’ll need to provide:
A site plan showing the location of each kennel, yard, building, structure and fence;
Plans and specifications of the proposed kennel establishment;
Evidence that you or a nominated person will reside on, or close to, the premises to manage and care for the dogs;
A written acknowledgement that you have read and agree to comply with any relevant code of practice for the keeping of dogs;
Proof that required notices have been given to surrounding properties (unless exempt); and
Payment of the application and inspection fees (see below).
Important note: Applications are assessed under the City’s Dogs Local Law. Before applying, ensure your proposal also meets relevant planning and health requirements. Refer to the licence conditions and requirements section below.
Application for Approved Commercial Dog Kennel Establishment
Fees
An application fee of $169.50 applies.
A separate inspection fee of $169.50 will also apply as part of the assessment process.
The renewal fee for an approved kennel establishment is $169.50.
Licence conditions
Licences are granted subject to the conditions set by the City and may include:
Minimum setbacks of kennels and yards from property boundaries, dwellings and other buildings;
Secure fencing and durable, easy-to-clean construction materials;
Proper drainage, sewerage and waste disposal;
Daily removal of refuse and control of noise, odours, flies and pests;
Continuous access to clean water and adequate shelter;
A requirement that the licensee, or a nominated person, resides on or near the property to ensure the dogs’ health and welfare;
The City may inspect the premises to confirm compliance;
Failure to meet licence conditions may result in suspension or cancellation of the licence and penalties.
For full details of licence conditions and penalties, refer to the Dog Act 1976 and the City’s local law.
