Requirements for planning applications

Applying for Development (Planning) Approval is a crucial step in the process of land development or modification. This process ensures that all development projects align with strategic land use plans and regulations, safeguarding the community's interests and promoting sustainable growth. Whether you're looking to build, extend, or change the use of a property, obtaining this approval confirms your project meets all required standards related to safety, aesthetics, and environmental impact.

Looking for detailed requirements on specific projects? Check out our dedicated pages for tailored advice:

• Dwelling development and alterations or additions
• Change of Land or Property Use 
• Swimming pools and spas
• Outbuildings (sheds)
• Carports and garages
• Patio, pergola or shade sails
• Retaining walls
• Fences and street walls
• Granny flats or ancillary dwellings
• Decks
• Minor residential development (i.e. rainwater tanks, solar panels) 

Once you have received the determination of your development (planning) application and you wish to make amendments (eg. decreasing the size of the build, altering heights, changing condition requirements) or applying for an extension of time to be able to commence the build, you will need to apply for development (planning) approval as if it is a whole new application as we will need to assess it against the current planning framework which may have changed since receiving the original approval.

You will be required to provide the same documentation as previously submitted, along with a cover letter outlining what changes have been made and/or the reasons why the extension of time is required, and a copy of the amended plans (the amendments will need to be clearly identified on the plans if you are using the previously approved plans). You can apply for both an amendment and extension of time on the same application. 

The fee applicable to an amendment or extension of time is $295. 

Prior to submitting your planning application please refer to the relevant checklist to ensure that you have included all the required information. Each checklist has an outline of the different documents required to be included with the application based on the type of development.

General application requirements are as follows:

• Application forms:
  • Application for Development (Planning) Approval form (not required if lodging online)
  • Metropolitan Region Scheme Form 1
  • Application for Development (Planning) Approval for Advertisements (required only for signage applications)
  • Adjoining Property Owners Comment Form (optional)
• Cover letter: this is a letter which provides an overview of the proposed development and may include the site analysis, impact on surrounding properties, streetscape etc. 
• Justification letter (mainly for residential developments): this is a letter outlining what elements of the deemed-to-comply requirements of the Residential Design Codes or applicable local planning framework document the development needs the City's discretion on and what impact it will have on the surrounding neighbourhood. Where applicable a list of the colours and materials should be included in the justification letter. 
• Plan package consisting of:
  • Site plan: showing all of the current structures on the site and the proposed location of the new development.
  • Floor plan: showing the dimensions and layout of the development (a birds eye view).
  • Elevation drawings: showing the height of the proposed development from different angles.
  • Landscaping plan: includes details of tree locations, trees and plant species (a requirement for any dwelling development located in a Housing Opportunity Area)
• Certificate of Title: confirming property/land ownership. If applying for a new dwelling and the ownership has not changed hands prior to the application being lodged, either the current owners will need to provide a letter of consent, sign the application forms or a copy of the offer and acceptance can be provided as long as the details of the current and future owners are provided. 

Important note: it is important that the application is received with all the relevant information outlined in the checklists. The City will not consider an application as acceptable for processing if any of the required information is missing and will be returned to the applicant.

Additional documents may be required depending on the type of development being applied for. Refer to the relevant checklist for the development type for further information.

Choose your preferred method below and remember to submit your supporting documents along with the application form:

Apply online

Alternate methods:

Download and complete the Application for Development (Planning) Approval Form (PDF) and submit:

• In person: at the City of Joondalup Administration Centre, located at 90 Boas Avenue, Joondalup. 

• Mail: to the City at PO Box 21, Joondalup WA 6919. 

Once your application has been received, an invoice will be emailed to you outlining fee and payment details. The fee varies depending on the value and type of development proposed. To ensure you're aware of the exact amount, please refer to the Schedule of Fees (PDF).