Building Permits & Building Approval
A building permit is required to construct most types of structures. We always recommend to contact the Shire first if you are looking to build anything on your property. We will be able to give advice specific to your needs.
The easiest way to do this is you can send us a plan or drawing of what you propose to build to chatter@chittering.wa.gov.au. The appropriate officers will review your proposal and be in contact with you to assist you with the process.
How to apply for a Building Permit or Building Approval
- Complete an Application Form (link below) - to know which one you need, we recommend you have a look at our checklists below.
- Use the appropriate checklist (below) to collate the required plans and information needed. This information needs to accompany the Application Form.
- Submit the application, plans and other information to chatter@chittering.wa.gov.au
Application Forms for Building Permits, Building Approval and Demolition Permits
Checklist for Application for Building Permit - Uncertified
Checklist for Application for Building Permit - Certified
Checklist for Unauthorised Building Work - Classes 1, 10A & 10B
What is the difference between a Building Permit and Building Approval?
A Building Permit is what someone must obtain for a structure that is not yet constructed.
Building Approval is what someone must obtain if they have built a structure WITHOUT a Building Permit. This involves a private, registered Building Surveyor being engaged.
Other Building Matters
Becoming an Owner-Builder
Building Commission Website - Apply to be an Owner-Builder
INFORMATION SHEET - Becoming an Owner-Builder
The successful completion of a home you have built yourself is a source of satisfaction and pleasure. But sadly, all too often the anticipated building project that has started with excitement and anticipation can deteriorate into stress and anguish.
This advice sheet (above) from the Shire of Chittering is to assist Owner-Builders to achieve an enjoyable and successful building experience and to avoid some of the hazards that can cause a building project to fail.
Demolition & Renovations
Building Commission Website - Application for Demolition Permit
If you have bought a property in the Shire of Chittering with an existing house that you intend to demolish or renovate, there may be certain things you need to do before you do.
All structures except domestic outbuildings (sheds, patios etc.) require a Demolition Permit before they can be demolished.
Renovations usually only require a Building Permit (when effecting a building structurally) but may require a Demolition Permit should the building be commercial or the renovation involves the removal of asbestos.
Asbestos
INFORMATION SHEET - The Risks of Asbestos Around Your Home
There have been several instances within the Shire of Chittering of the illegal demolition of asbestos buildings and of illegal dumping of the asbestos waste in reserves.
The Shire of Chittering will not tolerate the illegal demolition or disposal of Asbestos sheeting.
The Building Act 2011 states the penalty for demolition without a Demolition Permit is a fine of up to $50,000.00. The Health (Asbestos) Regulations 1992 have a penalty of up to $10,000.00 for illegal dumping of asbestos with on the spot fines of up to $2,000.00 for activities such as breaking or cutting asbestos.
The purpose of a Demolition Permit is to ensure buildings are demolished in a manner that does not cause harm to the owners of the property, the demolition workers and surrounding neighbours. It also ensures all waste is disposed of in a responsible manner.
Owners or demolition contractors that intend to demolish a building must obtain a valid Demolition Permit or a photocopy of such before a demolition can proceed.
Asbestos sheeting has not been manufactured since 1990 yet disease from exposure to asbestos is increasing even among younger ones that have never worked with the product. Each year, around 2,120 people are hospitalised in Australia and 145 people die in WA due to poor safety measures when handling asbestos during demolition and construction.
Buildings are also being vandalised. The resulting broken asbestos sheets or burnt asbestos exposes the vandals and neighbours to the disease causing fibres.
If you are considering renovating, it is imperative for the safety of yourself and family that all applicable safety measures are implemented.