Do I need Shire approvals for my project?

If you are building, developing or changing the way you use your land, you may need Planning, Building or Health approvals before you start work.

Call, email or come in to see our friendly Development & Regulatory Services team

We can help you to:

  • Find and address potential issues early
  • Understand the information you will need to apply
  • Navigate the approvals process and know what to expect

Call our team on (08) 9825 3555 or email mail@shirebt.wa.gov.au or come in and see us at the Shire's administration office in Tambellup.

Planning Approval

Planning approval (also called ‘development approval’) is a way of making sure that the use or development of land fits into its surroundings.

The rules that apply depend on the 'zoning' of the land in our Local Planning Schemes.

If you are ready to apply please fill out the following forms:

Please prepare full plans and details in accordance with the checklist and only put in your application when all of your information is ready. We are unable to start processing your application until all of the required information is provided and application fees paid.

Applications can be made via email, post or in person. Electronic applications are preferred.

  • Email mail@shirebt.wa.gov.au to the attention of Planning Services (preferred method)
  • In person at 46-48 Norrish St, Tambellup WA 6320.
  • Post to 46-48 Norrish St, Tambellup WA 632

Applications are processed in a timely manner. Further information may be required to complete the assessment if the information provided with the application is incomplete.

Building Approval

Your project will need a Building Permit if it includes construction work that is:

  • For a structure more than 2.4m in height and 10m2 in floor area
  • Be an owner builder or nominate a registered builder if the construction value is more than $20,000 (including all materials, labour and equipment)

The purpose of a Building Permit is to verify that your construction will comply with the standards of the National Construction Codes.

Plans provided to us need to show a high level of details and specifications.

More information and application forms can be found by clicking here.

Wastewater Management Systems

If there is a sewer system available to your property please contact the Water Corporation for information about how to connect.

If there is no sewer system available to your property and you need to install your own wastewater management system (e.g. septic tanks or secondary treatment system) you will need Shire approval before starting work.

Only wastewater management systems that are approved by the WA Department of Health can be used.

The type of system you will need depends on the site and soil conditions.

Contact your plumber (or approved installer) to help put together the information you will need.

More information and application forms can be found by clicking here.

Food & Beverage Businesses

Want to run a business that involves making or selling food or drinks?

Under State laws you need to register as a food business and meet certain training, premises and food handling standards.

The standards that apply vary according to the risk level of the food business (eg. what is involved in the preparation process and how likely the risks of contamination or illness are for certain types of food and drinks).

If you business involves the preparation or sale of alcohol you may also need to apply for a liquor license from the WA State Government (Department of Local Government, Commerce, Industry Regulation and Safety).

More information and application forms can be found by clicking here.

Crossovers (driveways)

A ‘crossover’ is the part of your driveway that is on the road verge.

Constructing a crossover needs Shire approval because the road verge is public land.

When you apply, we will assess the location (whether road safety standards are met) and the construction standard (including drainage).

One crossover is included for each property address. Additional crossovers will incur a fee.

Please direct any enquiry to mail@shirebt.wa.gov.au or phone 08 9825 3555.