If you plan to construct, alter, extend or repair a building or structure, you may need a Building Permit. Find out about the difference between certified and uncertified applications and how to apply.
About Building Permits
Building Permits are required for most construction, renovation and structural work to ensure projects comply with the National Construction Code and relevant building standards. This helps protect public safety, structural integrity, and property value. Some projects may also require Development (Planning) Approval or Health Approval.
Both applications can be lodged at the same time, however, a Building Permit cannot be issued until all required approvals have been granted.
Types of Building Permits
Before you start: approval requirements
Before preparing your Building Permit application, ensure you understand all approval requirements that may apply to your project.
Many projects require Planning Approval, Building Approval, and, in some cases, Health Approval.
Refer to the following sections to determine what applies to your project:
- Planning and Development Guides (e.g. change of use, subdividing)
- Building and Construction Guides (e.g. carport, shed, fence)
- Business Permits and Approvals (e.g. food business, home business, hairdresser, fit-out and refurbishment)
If you are unsure which approvals you need, please contact the City before starting your application.
Step 1: Prepare your application
Note: You will need to engage a registered building surveyor to assess your building plans. The surveyor will issue a Certificate of Design Compliance (BA3) if the plans meet all building codes and regulations. This certificate is required as part of your application.
You will need to complete and submit the following:
- Application for Building Permit – Certified (BA1) form.
- Site plans, specifications, and technical documents (refer to the residential checklist where applicable).
- Payment of relevant fees (see below).
- Development Approval (if required).
- Street and Verge Bond Permit application (see below).
You will need to complete and submit the following:
- Application for Building Permit – Uncertified (BA2) form
- Supporting documents as outlined in the checklist below
- Payment of relevant fees (see below)
- Street and Verge Bond Permit application (see below)
- Development Approval (if required)
Building Permit fees vary depending on the type and value of the works.
Refer to Building Fees Schedule and Calculator.
When applying for a Building Permit, you must also submit a Street and Verge Bond Permit Application. This includes a non-refundable administration fee and a refundable bond based on the value of works.
For details, visit the Street and Verge Bond Permits page.
Step 2: Submit your application
You can submit your Building Permit application:
- Online: via the City’s online application portal
- In person: City of Wanneroo Civic Centre, 23 Dundebar Road, Wanneroo
- By mail: City of Wanneroo, Locked Bag 1, Wanneroo WA 6946
Note: A completed BA1 form or BA2 form must be uploaded or attached with all submissions.
Step 3: Application processing
Once your application and payment have been received, the City will assess your submission.
Processing 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.
Step 4: Post-construction requirements
Upon completion of construction, the builder must submit a BA7 Notice of Completion within seven days of completing the works.
You can submit your Notice of Completion:
- Online: via the City’s online application portal
- In person: City of Wanneroo Civic Centre, 23 Dundebar Road, Wanneroo
- By mail: City of Wanneroo, Locked Bag 1, Wanneroo WA 6946
This finalises the Building Permit.
Note: A completed BA7 form must be uploaded or attached with all submissions. Building forms can be accessed on the WA Government Building Approvals page.
Other permits, certificates and notices
Under the Building Act 2011 and Building Regulations 2012, an Occupancy Permit is required for all Class 2 to Class 9 buildings in Western Australia.
An Occupancy Permit is required before a Class 2-9 building can be occupied. Occupying a Class 2-9 building without an Occupancy Permit may result in penalties under the Building Act 2011 and Building Regulations 2012.
You need a Demolition Permit for any complete or partial demolition, dismantling, or removal of a building or incidental structure. This includes buildings like sheds, patios, and pergolas, though some exemptions apply.
Following are links to Building Approval Certificate forms:
- Building Approval Certificate (BA13) Online Form
- Building Approval Certificate BA13 (Unauthorised Works/Existing Structures only) Online Form
- Building Approval Certificate BA13 - Authorised Buildings including Built Strata (1 – 5 Residential Dwellings) Online Form
- Building Approval Certificate (BA13) PDF
To change or extend your existing permit approval, you can apply to the City for an amendment or extension.
To find out more refer to the Amendment and Extension of Building Application page.
A Notice of Cessation is used to advise the City that building work approved under a building permit has permanently ceased before the project has been completed.
