Find out what approvals are required when changing how a property or tenancy is used, including planning approval, building approval and supporting documentation.
Definitions
Change of Use: A change to the approved or lawful land use of a property, tenancy, or premises. For example, changing a premises from a ‘Shop’ to a ‘Restaurant’.
Development (Planning) Approval: Approval confirming that your proposal complies with applicable zoning and planning requirements. It must be obtained before a Building Permit can be issued.
Building Permit: Permission to commence building work that meets required building standards.
Requirements
- Planning approval: Development (Planning) Approval is required for a change of use unless the proposed use is a P (Permitted) use under the City’s Local Planning Scheme, an exempted D use under the Planning and Development (Local Planning Schemes) Regulations 2015, or an exempted use under Local Planning Policy 4.26 Exemptions from Development (Planning) Approval.
- Building approval: A Building Permit is generally required for the construction of new commercial buildings, additions, alterations, fit-outs and changes of use. Depending on the proposed works and use, an Occupancy Permit may also be required before the building can be occupied.
- Health approval: If your development involves a food business, public building, liquor licence, skin penetration premises (e.g. beauty therapy or tattooing), caravan park, camping ground, lodging house, public swimming pool or onsite wastewater disposal, approval from the City's Health team may also be required.
Note: If work has already been completed without approvals, see the Unauthorised works page.
How to apply
Check the permissibility of your proposed land use against the Zoning Table in the City's Local Planning Scheme below.
Important notes
- If your proposed use is a 'P' (Permitted) use, Development (Planning) Approval is not required.
- If your proposed use is an 'X' (Not Permitted) use, the use is not permitted within the applicable zone.
- If your proposed use is a 'D' (Discretionary) or 'A' (Advertised) use, Development (Planning) Approval may be required. If you are unsure whether the use qualifies as an exempt use under the Planning and Development (Local Planning Schemes) Regulations 2015 or the City's Local Planning Policy 4.26 Exemptions from Development (Planning) Approval, please contact the City's Planning Services team on (08) 9405 5000.
For detailed information, including the application process, timeframe and fees, refer to the Development (Planning) Approval page.
Documents to prepare
Refer to the Change of use checklist (PDF), see below.
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 for Development (Planning) Approval PDF form 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 for Development (Planning) Approval PDF form 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.
Development (Planning) Approval Application Form (PDF) Change of Use Development (Planning) Approval Checklist (PDF)
Documents to prepare
For detailed information, including the application process, timeframe, and fees, refer to Building Permit page.
Note: A completed BA1 must be uploaded or attached with all submissions.
How to submit your application
You can submit your Building Permit application:
- Option 1 – Apply online (preferred): via the City’s online application portal
- Option 2 – In person: City of Wanneroo Civic Centre, 23 Dundebar Road, Wanneroo.
- Option 3 – By post: City of Wanneroo, Locked Bag 1, Wanneroo WA 6946
Fees
Timeframes
Once your application and payment have been received, the City will assess your submission.
Processing timeframes
- Certified applications: within 10 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.
