When Is Planning Approval Required?

Planning applications are required to be submitted for most new development and change of land use within the Shire. The Shire's planning officer can give you advice on whether an approval is required, what should be contained within the application, what fees apply and the requirements that may be placed on the development by the Town Planning Scheme or a Council policy.

An Application for Planning Approval form is required to be completed with all applications, and all applications for planning scheme consent attract a fee at lodgement. Please consult the fee schedule to determine what fees will apply to your development.

The Shire has developed a number of checklists to assist you when preparing planning applications detailing the information required to accompany your planning application form, and is in the process of developing a series of information packs that will help explain the planning process and requirements on a variety of issues. Following are some useful documents to help you gain the required approvals.

Application for Planning Approval
Fee Schedule (Refer to Planning Bulletin 93/2011)
Checklists
Information Sheets (under construction)

Neighbours’ Comment

There are instances where there is a requirement to refer a planning application to neighbouring landowners for their comment. The Shire prefers to write to neighbouring landowners, however applicants are entitled to obtain neighbours comments themselves if they wish.

If you wish to obtain your neighbours’ comments regarding your planning application the Adjoining Landowners Form must be used, and the neighbours must sign the development plans (as proof that they have seen the correct plans).

Rights of Appeal

Any decision of Council to refuse to grant approval of a planning application will be accompanied by clear reasons and provides an automatic Right of Appeal to the State Administrative Tribunal (SAT). Should an applicant feel aggrieved by any decision made by Council (including any condition of approval that might be imposed) there is a 28-day period from the date of the actual planning decision in which an Appeal may be lodged. If you are unsure of your responsibilities and obligations under Town Planning Scheme No.2, or what statutory processes may be required to be undertaken in order to properly consider and determine any development proposal, please contact our Planning Officer.