Find out about approval requirements for signs placed in public open space, including parks, reserves, sporting grounds and public facilities, and how to apply.
Definition
Public open space includes parks, reserves, sporting ovals, playground areas, community recreation areas, natural landscaped areas and associated buildings.
A sign in public open space is any message, direction or representation displayed on a board, structure, fence, temporary frame or other device. This includes painted, printed, electronic and portable displays.
Types of signage in public open space
- Permanent or semi-permanent signage;
- Sponsorship signs for sporting clubs or community facilities;
- Facility identification signs;
- Club, school or association signs;
- Banner or panel signs fixed to approved structures;
- Wayfinding or information signs;
- Temporary signage;
- Event signage for community or sporting events;
- Banners on approved frames;
- Club advertising for seasonal sports programs.
Purpose of signage control
Signs in public open space are regulated to ensure:
- The visual amenity of parks and reserves is maintained;
- Signage is appropriately scaled and sympathetic to its surroundings;
- Signs do not create clutter or detract from public enjoyment of open space;
- Structural and public safety requirements are met; and
- Temporary signage is used appropriately and removed promptly.
The City aims to balance the needs of clubs and community users with broader expectations for well-presented and safe public environments.
Requirements
Depending on the design, size, location and purpose of the sign, you may need:
- Planning Approval: Development (Planning) Approval is required for all signage within public open space, except where approval has been granted through a lease agreement or other approval issued by the City.
- Building Approval: A Sign Licence is required for most fixed, permanent or structurally supported signs placed in public open space.
Commercial advertising is generally not permitted unless allowed under a lease, agreement or policy.
Planning Approval
Development (Planning) Approval is required for all signage within a public open space except where the sign is:
- Temporary Development (defined as being in existence for less than 48 hours in a calendar year);
- Consistent with that permitted under a lease agreement with the City; or
- Incorporated in another approval (including landscape approval) issued by the City.
General guidelines
All signs placed in public open space must:
- Be suitable for their surrounding environment;
- Not obstruct public paths, activity areas or access points;
- Not be attached to trees;
- Not be fixed to playground equipment, shelters or infrastructure unless specifically approved;
- Be securely installed and maintained in a safe condition;
- Not create visual clutter or distraction;
- Be removed promptly when no longer required.
For temporary signage for community, club or sporting events please refer to the temporary community signage web page.
How to apply
If your sign requires Development (Planning) Approval, you will need to lodge an application with supporting documents.
Supporting documentation required:
Standard signage
- Site plan showing the location of the existing or proposed sign(s), access points, car parking areas, landscaping and the location of the proposed signage in relation to these elements. The site plan must show the setback of the sign(s) from the street, side and rear boundaries. Minimum scale: 1:200.
- Elevations of the sign(s) and/or the façade(s) of the building to which the sign will be affixed. The elevations must show the total height and width of the sign(s), the height of any supporting structures, and all proposed graphics or wording. Minimum scale: 1:100 or 1:200.
Digital signage
- The above;
- An artist or computer generated impression to scale showing the proposed development and its relationship with the surroundings;
- Information on the operation of the sign (e.g. dwell time, set on a timer, static/cinematic, luminance levels) and a maintenance schedule (as applicable);
- Visual impact assessment (where required); and
- Complaints management procedure addressing complaints relating to luminance levels and contents displayed.
Signage strategy
A signage strategy is an overall plan for a development site or structure plan area and should be submitted with an application for Development (Planning) Approval when:
- The signage relates to a subdivision or development estate which proposes more than ten lots;
- The signage relates to a display home centre; or
- The number of signs for a development site (existing and proposed) exceeds a total of four.
A signage strategy should incorporate the location, type, size and design of all existing and proposed signs, depicted on site and elevation plans. Justification should be provided on the need for the number and design of signs proposed.
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 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 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.
A sign licence is required for most fixed or structurally supported signs, including pylon signs, projecting signs, roof signs and illuminated signs.
Required supporting documents:
Three copies of plans drawn to a scale of not less than 1:50 showing the size, position, design and inscription, and the method of construction and fixing
Detailed structural drawings.
How to submit your application
You can submit your sign licence application:
- Option 1 – Apply online (preferred): Apply through the online lodgement portal.
- Option 2 – In person: With the completed Sign Licence Application Form (see below) 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 the completed Sign Licence Application Form (see below) and all supporting documentation to City of Wanneroo, Locked Bag 1, Wanneroo WA 6946.
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.
