Find information on how to apply for building permits, occupancy permits, demolition permits, or verge permits. Learn about the application process, requirements, expected timeframes, and follow our step-by-step instructions.
Building approval process
The Building Act provides for a permit authority to control the construction, occupation and demolition of buildings and incidental structures. This is done through the granting of permits and enforcing compliance. In most cases the permit authority will be the relevant local government.
It is important to note that as well as the Building Act and the Building Regulations, there may be other laws enforced by local government, such as planning and health that require a separate approval. For advice on approval requirements for your specific building project please contact the relevant local government.
Overview of requirements
Before you begin your construction or renovation project, it's important to determine whether you need a Building Permit or Development (Planning) Approval. These are crucial to ensure your project complies with local land use and environmental guidelines.
Ready to apply for a Building Permit? Continue below for a step-by-step guide through the application process.
Looking for detailed requirements on specific projects? Check out our dedicated pages for tailored advice:
Apply for a Building Permit
Important note: If your project also needs planning approval, the Building Permit will be issued only after you get Development (Planning) Approval. Check whether planning approval is or is not required before you lodge for your Building Permit.
Building permits are crucial for ensuring that any building or renovation is safe and complies with regulations. They confirm your project meets the National Construction Code, relevant Australian Standards and local guidelines, protecting your property's value and legality.
Skipping a permit can lead to fines and the potential need for expensive fixes or even demolition. In Western Australia, these permits are required for a broad range of projects, ensuring they adhere to safety and design standards. Getting a permit is a critical step in any responsible construction or renovation effort.
There are two types of Building Permit applications:
- Certified: an application that has been assessed by a private building surveyor and then lodged with the City for a building permit to be issued.
- Uncertified: an application where the assessment is carried out by the City for a building permit to be issued.
Begin by consulting the specific checklist for your project type, which details all required documents, such as site plans and drawings. These are crucial for your application and ensure a thorough review of your project.
General application requirements:
- Building permit application forms: BA1 for certified applications, BA2 for uncertified applications (only required if not submitting online).
- Certificate of Design Compliance (BA3): only for certified applications.
- Plans and Specifications: copies of all relevant documents.
- Building Application Fee: if applied online or in person, you'll receive an invoice.
- Compliance Evidence: proof of meeting any related Planning or Health standards.
- Insurance Evidence: ensure compliance with the Home Indemnity provisions under the Home Building Contracts Act 1991, where relevant.
- Payment of BCITF Levy: you must provide evidence of your BCITF levy payment, typically in the form of a receipt, when submitting your application, if applicable.
- Owner-Builder Approval: proof of approval from the Building Service Board, if required.
Refer to the Forms, checklists and lodgement page for further information.
Choose your preferred lodgement method below and remember to include the relevant checklist and supporting documents:
- Online (preferred): Apply through the Online Lodgement Portal for efficiency and convenience.
- Mail: Alternatively, mail your hard copy application to the City at PO Box 21, Joondalup WA 6919.
Application forms (for offline lodgement only):
The fee varies depending on the specifics of your application. To ensure you're aware of the exact amount, please refer to the Schedule of Fees (PDF).
Here are the payment options available based on your method of lodgement:
- Online: An invoice with payment instructions will be sent to you via email.
- Postal: If submitting by mail, include a cheque made payable to the City of Joondalup with your application.
After submitting your application, it undergoes a preliminary assessment. If found incomplete, the City will notify you, requesting the necessary additional information. This must be provided within 21 days or another timeframe agreed upon with the City.
Please note: If applications are submitted online and it is identified during the pre-acceptance review that information is missing from the application, the City will return the application with an explanation of what information is missing and it will not be processed until the missing information is provided and the application resubmitted online. This does not negate the above preliminary assessment process.
Once all relevant information is provided, the assessment timeframe is as follows:
- Certified applications: Within 10 working days
- Uncertified applications: Within 25 working days.
Checking the progress of your application
- Online: Monitor your application's status via the City's Online Lodgement Portal.
- In-person or mail: For updates, contact Building Services directly (Note: only the nominated applicant will be able receive updates on the application progress).
The builder must submit a Notice of Completion (BA7 form) within seven days after finishing the works, ensuring all obligations are met and the process is concluded smoothly. The BA7 form can be submitted via email, in person or mail.
Demolition Permits
A demolition permit is required for demolition, dismantling or removal of a building or incidental structure (or part of). Find out how to apply.
As part of your application, you will require the following supporting documents:
- Site Plan (scale 1:200): Indicate structures designated for demolition, any to remain (if partially demolishing), and the locations of septic tanks or leach drains, as applicable.
- Proof of utility disconnection: Supply written confirmation from service contractors (e.g., electricians, plumbers) providing completion certificates. Absence of this documentation may result in delays.
- Rodent Baiting Certificate: A necessary step to prevent rodent infestation, this certificate should be provided by a licensed pest controller, detailing the date, type of rodenticide, treated areas, and quantity used. Use of first-generation anticoagulant rodenticides is recommended to protect non-target wildlife.
- BCITF Levy payment: For demolitions valued over $20,000:
- Include a copy of the BCITF levy payment receipt if paid directly through the Construction Training Fund's portal.
Choose your preferred method for completion and lodgement of the Application for Demolition Permit (BA5 form):
- Online (preferred): Apply through the Online Lodgement Portal for efficiency and convenience.
- In person: Download the form below and submit your application at the City of Joondalup Administration Centre, located at 90 Boas Avenue, Joondalup.
- Mail: Alternatively, mail your application using the form below to the City at PO Box 21, Joondalup WA 6919.
Important note: Remember to include the supporting documents mentioned in Step 1.
Apply online
Application form (for offline lodgement only)
The fee varies depending on the specifics of your application. To ensure you're aware of the exact amount, please refer to the Schedule of Fees (PDF).
Here are the payment options available based on your method of lodgement:
- Online: An invoice with payment instructions will be sent to you via email.
- In-person: Payments can be made at the City’s Administration Centre using cash, cheque, EFTPOS, or credit card. Please note, a 0.5% surcharge is incurred for Visa or Mastercard transactions.
- Mail: If submitting by mail, include a cheque made payable to the City of Joondalup with your application.
After submitting your application, it undergoes a preliminary assessment. If found incomplete, the City will notify you, requesting the necessary additional information. This must be provided within 21 days or another timeframe agreed upon with the City.
Please note: If applications are submitted online and it is identified during the pre-acceptance review that information is missing from the application, the City will return the application with an explanation of what information is missing and it will not be processed until the missing information is provided and the application resubmitted online. This does not negate the above preliminary assessment process.
Once all relevant information is provided, your application will be assessed and completed within 10 working days.
Checking the progress of your application
- Online: Monitor your application's status via the City's Online Lodgement Portal.
- In-person or mail: For updates, contact Building Services directly.
Building Approval Certificate
A Building Approval Certificate is required for works that have been undertaken without any previous approval or for residential strata development (built strata subdivisions). Find out how to apply.
A registered Building Surveying Practitioner must issue a Certificate of Building Compliance (BA18) for existing buildings, signed by a building surveyor.
Choose your preferred method for completion and lodgement of the Building Approval Certificate application (BA13 form):
- Online (preferred): Apply through the Online Lodgement Portal for efficiency and convenience.
- In person: Download the form below and submit your application at the City of Joondalup Administration Centre, located at 90 Boas Avenue, Joondalup.
- Mail: Alternatively, mail your application using the form below to the City at PO Box 21, Joondalup WA 6919.
Important note: Remember to include a copy of the Certificate of Building Compliance (BA18) mentioned in Step 1 along with all the documents that are listed in the Certificate of Building Compliance. If any documents are missing, the application will be returned to the applicant.
Application form (for offline lodgement only)
Download Application for Building Approval Certificate (BA13 form)
The fee varies depending on the specifics of your application. To ensure you're aware of the exact amount, please refer to the Schedule of Fees (PDF).
Here are the payment options available based on your method of lodgement:
- Online: An invoice with payment instructions will be sent to you via email.
- Mail: If submitting by mail, include a cheque made payable to the City of Joondalup with your application.
After submitting your application, it undergoes a preliminary assessment. If found incomplete, the City will notify you, requesting the necessary additional information. This must be provided within 21 days or another timeframe agreed upon with the City.
Please note: If applications are submitted online and it is identified during the pre-acceptance review that information is missing from the application, the City will return the application with an explanation of what information is missing and it will not be processed until the missing information is provided and the application resubmitted online. This does not negate the above preliminary assessment process.
Once all relevant information is provided, your application will be assessed and completed within 10 working days.
Checking the progress of your application
- Online: Monitor your application's status via the City's Online Lodgement Portal.
- In-person or mail: For updates, contact Building Services directly.
Occupancy Permits
Before occupying any building or a new part of an existing building, you must acquire an Occupancy Permit. Find out how to apply.
An Occupancy Permit is required if:
- Moving into a newly completed commercial building or a new section of an existing one
- Temporarily using an incomplete commercial building or a section of it
- Using a commercial building or section that's changed its use or classification permanently
- Approving commercial works conducted without a Building Permit
- Temporarily adjusting the use allowed under an existing occupancy permit for a commercial building.
A registered Building Surveying Practitioner must issue one of the following certificates, as applicable:
- A Certificate of Construction Compliance (BA17) for new buildings (including new building work to existing buildings); or
- A Certificate of Building Compliance (BA18) for existing buildings, signed by a building surveyor.
Choose your preferred method for completion and lodgement of the Building Approval Certificate application (BA13 form):
- Online (preferred): Apply through the Online Lodgement Portal for efficiency and convenience.
- In person: Download the form below and submit your application at the City of Joondalup Administration Centre, located at 90 Boas Avenue, Joondalup.
- Mail: Alternatively, mail your application using the form below to the City at PO Box 21, Joondalup WA 6919.
Important note: Remember to include a copy of the Certificate of Construction Compliance (BA17) or Certificate of Building Compliance (BA18) mentioned in Step 1 along with all the documents that are listed in the Certificate of Construction Compliance/Certificate of Building Compliance. If any documents are missing, the application will be returned to the applicant.
Application form (for offline lodgement only)
This fee varies depending on the specifics of your application. To ensure you're aware of the exact amount, please refer to the Schedule of Fees (PDF).
Here are the payment options available based on your method of lodgement:
- Online: An invoice with payment instructions will be sent to you via email.
- Mail: If submitting by mail, include a cheque made payable to the City of Joondalup with your application.
After submitting your application, it undergoes a preliminary assessment. If found incomplete, the City will notify you, requesting the necessary additional information. This must be provided within 21 days or another timeframe agreed upon with the City.
Please note: If applications are submitted online and it is identified during the pre-acceptance review that information is missing from the application, the City will return the application with an explanation of what information is missing and it will not be processed until the missing information is provided and the application resubmitted online. This does not negate the above preliminary assessment process.
Once all relevant information is provided, your application will be assessed and completed within 10 working days.
Checking the progress of your application
- Online: monitor your application's status via the City's Online Lodgement Portal.
- In-person or mail: for updates, contact Building Services directly.
Building Verge Permits
A Building Verge Permit is essential for storing construction materials safely in public spaces during projects. Find out how to apply.
Obtaining a Building Verge Permit enables builders to safely store construction materials on public areas such as streets or walkways, acquired behind fences or hoardings. This permit covers materials like bricks, timber, iron, as well as site offices and storage sheds.
Important note: this permit does not grant parking rights for construction vehicles in public spaces.
The following plans must accompany your application:
- Site Plan: detailing the designated area (minimum size 4m x 2m), site boundaries, existing structures, and any significant features. The plan should clearly mark the proposed location and dimensions of the hoarding.
- Traffic Management Plan (if applicable): this is necessary if you haven't previously submitted one to the City and your project impacts local traffic flow.
Important note: if a Traffic Management Plan is required, you will need to apply to the City for approval prior to lodging a Building Verge Permit application. Refer to the Road safety and school crossings webpage for application requirements.
Submit your application along with the relevant required documentation via one of the following methods:
- Email: Download and complete the application form below and submit via info@joondalup.wa.gov.au.
- In person: Download and complete the application form below and submit at the City of Joondalup Customer Care Centre, 90 Boas Avenue, Joondalup.
- Mail: download and complete the application form below and mail to PO Box 21, Joondalup WA 6919.
Building Verge Permit Application Form (PDF)
Important note: Remember to include the supporting plans mentioned in Step 1.
The fee for a building verge permit is $1.00 per square meter per month. Additionally, if applicable, a footpath deposit fee of at least $300 may be required.
Here are the payment options available based on your method of lodgement:
- Email: an invoice with payment instructions will be sent to you via email.
- In-person: payments can be made at the City’s Administration Centre using cash, cheque, EFTPOS, or credit card. Please note, a 0.5% surcharge is incurred for Visa or Mastercard transactions.
- Mail: if submitting by mail, include a cheque made payable to the City of Joondalup with your application.
Infrastructure Verge Bond Requirements
As part of the City’s efforts to protect existing verge infrastructure, effective from Monday 19 August 2024, the City will require an infrastructure verge bond to be paid for all building permits with an estimated construction value of $60,000.00 or more.
The bond amounts for 2024/2025 will be as follows:
- Estimated construction value $60,000 to $250,000: a bond amount of $1,000.
- Estimated construction value $250,001 to $1,000,000: a bond amount of $2,000.
- Estimated construction value >$1,000,000: variable – depending upon infrastructure at each site. Minimum bound $5,000.
In addition to the bond amount, there will be an administrative fee of $210.00 (GST inclusive), which is non-refundable.
The infrastructure verge bond is refundable provided that no damage occurs to the City’s existing verge infrastructure during the construction. If damage does occur, the bond will be used to cover the costs of necessary repairs.
Apply via online application form
If you have any questions about these requirements, please contact the City’s Engineering Services team on 9400 4000.
After submitting your application, it undergoes a preliminary assessment. If found incomplete, the City will notify you, requesting the necessary additional information. This must be provided within 21 days or another timeframe agreed upon with the City.
Once all relevant information is provided, your application will be assessed and completed within 10 working days.
For updates on the progress of your application, contact Building Services directly on 9400 4000.