Public buildings may require health approval. Find out what approvals are needed and how to apply.
Definition
A public building is any building, place, or part of a building that is designed or used for public gatherings, including:
- Civic, social, political, or religious events.
- Educational activities.
- Entertainment, recreation, or sporting events.
- Business or commercial activities.
Examples of public buildings include churches, private schools, cinemas, nightclubs, public swimming pools, concert halls, auditoriums, and circuses.
Overview of requirements
The approvals required for Public buildings are outlined below:
- Planning approval: Development (planning) approval may be required, depending on the location of the business and applicable land use provisions. Please refer to the planning applications page for detailed guidance, including application forms, checklists, and associated fees.
- Building Permit: A building permit is required for constructing a new building or undertaking additions to an existing structure. Fit-outs to existing buildings may also require a permit. Please refer to the building permit page for detailed guidance, including application forms, checklists, and associated fees. An occupancy permit may also be necessary, depending on the scope of works.
- Health approval: A Certificate of Approval must be obtained before a public building can be used.
Additional considerations
- For temporary events held in public buildings, refer to Public community event page.
- If food will be prepared or served on the premises, refer to Food business approvals.
For detailed information, including the application process, timeframe and fees, refer to the Development (Planning) Approval page.
Documents to prepare and submit
All development applications must be accompanied by a completed checklist. Incomplete applications will not be accepted and will be returned to the applicant with a list of outstanding items.
Download, complete and sign the Development (planning) Application Checklist.
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
- Up to 60 days for most applications
- Up to 90 days if consultation with the public or other public authority is required.
The assessment period commences once the City has received and accepted a complete application, including all required plans, supporting information and application fees.
Development (Planning) Approval, where required, must be issued before a Building Permit can be obtained.
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: A completed BA1 or BA2 form must be uploaded or attached with all submissions.
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.
As part of the health approval process:
- Complete the Public Building online form.
- Download and complete the Form 5 Certificate of Electrical Compliance and return the completed form via email to Health@wanneroo.wa.gov.au
