Building applications in city of Canning , located in Perth’s vibrant southern suburbs, has specific building and planning requirements for residential, commercial, and short-stay developments. Whether you are planning a new home, a commercial project, or an Airbnb setup, understanding the City’s building application process is essential for timely approval and project success.
This guide provides a clear overview of the City of Canning’s planning framework, types of applications, site plan requirements, and key tips to help you avoid common mistakes.
Understanding Building Applications in City of Canning Planning Framework
Before lodging a building application in the City of Canning, it’s vital to understand the City’s planning regulations. Applications are assessed based on:
- Local Planning Scheme No. 42,
- Residential Design Codes (R-Codes)
- State Planning Policies (SPPs)
Key factors include zoning, permitted land use, building envelopes, and site-specific overlays.
Unsure about your land’s potential? Start with a Subdivision Feasibility Study or Understanding the Potential of Your Property to avoid costly misstep
Types of Building Applications in City of Canning
The City processes a variety of building and development applications, including:
- Residential Development Applications (new builds, extensions, granny flats)
Start with a Feature & Contour Survey to ensure accurate setbacks and grading. - Commercial Development Applications (offices, retail stores, warehouses)
Our Licensed Surveying Services provide accurate site data and setout support. - Subdivision Applications (Green Title, Survey Strata)
Use a Subdivision Feasibility Study to assess development viability before lodging. - Short Stay Accommodation (Airbnb) Applications
- Demolition Permits
- Occupancy Permits
Each type requires specific documentation and may involve licensed boundary surveys and feature and contour surveys to meet planning and zoning requirements.
Step-by-Step Guide to Submitting Your Application
Follow these steps for a smooth building application submission:
- Pre-Lodgement Consultation
Meet with a council planner to identify any zoning or compliance issues early. It’s also the perfect time to understand the potential of your property and assess your site’s development feasibility. - Prepare Required Documents
Include:- Site Plan (to City of Canning specifications)
- Floor Plan
- Elevation Drawings
- Certificate of Title
- Cover Letter or Justification Letter
- Completed Application Form
To ensure accurate planning data, consider a feature and contour survey, especially for sloped or irregular blocks.
- Submit Digitally via the Online Portal
The City encourages digital submission for faster processing. - Pay Application Fees
Fees vary depending on development value and type. - Assessment and Public Consultation (if required)
Some developments will need public feedback. Early boundary clarification can prevent objections — a licensed boundary survey is often key here. - Decision Notification
Applications are approved, modified, or refused based on compliance with planning frameworks. If your project involves subdividing land, a detailed subdivision feasibility study will help you proceed with confidence.
City of Canning Site Plan Requirements: A Detailed Breakdown
A compliant site plan is critical for approval. Your site plan must include:
- Accurate property boundaries and measurements
- Proposed and existing building locations
- Setbacks from all boundaries
- Access points and parking layout
- Landscaping features
- Orientation (North Point) and Scale
Pro Tip: Engage a professional surveyor like PSS Group to ensure your site plan meets all City of Canning requirements, minimizing approval delays. Start with a Licensed Boundary Survey to define your legal property limits and avoid disputes. Complement this with a Feature and Contour Survey for precise topographical data that supports design and compliance.
If you’re planning future development, explore our Subdivision Feasibility Study services to understand your site’s potential. Learn how we help clients navigate land development planning with confidence, accuracy, and speed.
Common Building Application Mistakes to Avoid
Common mistakes to watch out for include:
- Submitting incomplete documentation (missing site plans, title certificates, supporting documents)
- Ignoring zoning restrictions (especially for Airbnbs and subdivisions)
- Discrepancies between floor plans and site plans
- Not consulting with the council early
- Underestimating the approval timeline (allow up to 60 days)
Avoid these issues by planning early and seeking professional advice. Start with a thorough Subdivision Feasibility Study to assess your project’s viability. Ensure accuracy by getting a Licensed Boundary Survey and avoid delays caused by planning missteps. For detailed site analysis, a Feature and Contour Survey is essential. If you’re uncertain about how to begin, explore our guide to Understanding the Potential of Your Property.
Useful Resources and Contact Information
Essential links and contacts for your City of Canning building application:
- City of Canning Building and Development Portal
- Phone: (08) 9231 0606
- Email: [email protected]
- Online Forms: Development Application Form, Subdivision Application Form
- Pre-Lodgement Meetings: Book via the City’s website.
Always use the latest City of Canning application checklist to ensure complete submissions.
Before lodging, it’s recommended to understand the potential of your property and conduct a subdivision feasibility study to ensure your development complies with local planning schemes. For accuracy in design and compliance, feature and contour surveys and licensed boundary surveys are essential components of a successful submission.
Airbnb Development Applications in the City of Canning
Operating an Airbnb in Canning requires formal approval. Key steps:
- Confirm zoning allows short stay accommodation
- Lodge a development application with a justification letter
- Address parking, noise management, and guest policies
- Comply with any special council conditions
Unapproved short stays can face fines and enforcement actions. For professional insight on zoning or compliance, companies such as Land Surveys and MNG Survey also provide valuable industry standards across Western Australia.
FAQs Regarding Building Applications in the City of Canning
- How long does building approval take in Canning?
Approval usually takes 30 to 60 days, depending on project complexity and public consultation needs. - Can I submit my application online?
Yes, the City of Canning supports digital submission through their online portal. - What documents are essential for a site plan?
Site plans must include property boundaries, setbacks, structure locations, vehicle access, landscaping, and a North Point. - Is approval needed for Airbnb properties?
Yes, short term rental accommodation requires formal planning approval before operation. - What supporting documents are needed for a Canning building application?
A full application includes a site plan, floor plan, elevation drawings, certificate of title, application form, and a cover/justification letter. For advanced documentation or integration into digital workflows, reference ESO Surveyors’ data management services or explore 3D planning capabilities such as Land Surveys’ 3D Reality Capture.
Need help preparing your building application for the City of Canning? Contact PSS Group for expert surveying and site plan services.”For personalized assistance with your building application in the City of Canning, contact our team of experts today.”