Understanding Building Applications in the City of Melville Planning Framework

Building Applications in the City of Melville, local Planning Scheme governs land use, zoning, and development approvals. Before applying, it’s crucial to confirm if your project aligns with local planning regulations.

Key Planning Elements:

• Zoning Information – Determines what type of development is permitted on your land. Before committing to any plans, we recommend reviewing a Subdivision Feasibility Study to understand your property’s development potential.
• Development Approval (DA) – Often required before submitting a building permit application. Many projects begin with a Feature and Contour Survey to ensure site details align with planning requirements.
• Land Use Categories – Residential, commercial, short-stay (Airbnb). If you’re unsure what’s possible, our guide to Understanding the Potential of Your Property can help clarify your options.
• Planning Forms & Checklists – Must be submitted with every application. To avoid costly delays or disputes, it’s essential to establish your legal boundaries early on with a Licensed Boundary Survey.
• Metropolitan Region Scheme Form – Required for certain developments

Use the Melville Zoning Map Tool to check your property’s zoning and overlay restrictions.

Types of Building Applications in the City of Melville

Choosing the right application type helps prevent unnecessary rework or rejection by the council.

Common Application Categories:

• Residential Building Applications
  New homes, extensions, garages, patios, or granny flats.

Before committing to plans, make sure you’re building on accurate ground data. Our Feature and Contour Surveys are essential for designing and positioning your build with confidence—especially in areas with slope or drainage considerations.

You might also benefit from our article: The Ultimate Guide to Feature and Contour Surveys to understand how this survey supports stress-free planning.

• Commercial & Industrial Development
  Office buildings, retail fit-outs, warehouses, and mixed-use sites.

When dealing with larger, higher-risk structures, accuracy and site boundaries become non-negotiable. Our Licensed Boundary Surveys ensure your site is compliant and legally sound, avoiding construction setbacks and property disputes.

For more clarity on the process, check out The Essential Guide to Boundary Surveys.

• Subdivision & Strata Applications
  Requires licensed surveyor plans and compliance with WAPC conditions.

This type of development must align with WAPC and council policy. Start by running a Subdivision Feasibility Study with PSS Group to identify hidden roadblocks and improve your chance of approval.

Then explore how we help at every stage in Your Partner in Land Subdivision – From Planning to Profit.

• Short-Stay Accommodation (Airbnb)
  Requires additional documentation, management plans, and in some cases, community consultation.

Properties being transformed into short-stay accommodation often need planning approvals depending on zoning. Start with Understanding the Potential of Your Property to check if your lot is suitable—and what’s possible under current zoning and overlays.

Step-by-Step Guide to Submitting Your Application

Submitting a complete, compliant application ensures faster approval and fewer follow-ups from the council.

Step 1: Prepare Required Documentation

• Current Certificate of Title (dated within 6 months)
• Completed Application Form (available on the City of Melville website)
• To-Scale Site Plan showing structures, boundaries, and setbacks
• Floor Plans with labelled rooms and dimensions
• Elevation Drawings showing all sides, height, and materials
• Landscaping Plan if applicable
• Justification Letter for performance-based design elements
• Adjoining Landowner Consent where boundary structures are involved

Submit all documents as high-resolution PDFs via the City of Melville Online Planning Portal.

Step 2: Calculate and Pay the Planning Fee

Use the fee schedule on the council website to calculate your application cost and include proof of payment with your submission.

Step 3: Track and Respond

Once submitted, track your application via the portal. Respond promptly to any additional requests from the planning team to avoid delays.

City of Melville Site Plan Requirements: A Detailed Breakdown

A compliant site plan is one of the most important documents in your submission. It ensures the council can properly assess how your proposal fits on the block.

What to Include in a Site Plan:

• Lot boundaries and setbacks
• Existing and proposed buildings
• Vehicle access, car bays, and footpaths
• Trees and landscaped areas
• North point and scale (1:100 or 1:200)
• Clearly labelled dimensions and annotations

Include a properly scaled, professional diagram — ideally prepared by a licensed surveyor.
See examples of feature and contour surveys provided by PSS Group

Common Building Application Mistakes to Avoid

Prevent approval delays and save time by avoiding these common errors:

• Submitting non-scaled plans or missing north point
• Failing to include elevation drawings or justification letters
• Omitting a Certificate of Title
• Using hand-drawn or low-resolution PDFs
• Submitting without the correct forms or fee payments

Use the official Melville Planning Checklist before submitting your application.

Useful Resources and Contact Information

To ensure your building application is complete and meets council requirements, refer to the official City of Melville resources below:

• City of Melville Planning Portal
  Access the portal for application forms, planning guidelines, and online lodgement tools.
• Planning Forms & Submission Checklists
  Download all necessary documents to ensure your submission is compliant.
• Melville Zoning Map Tool
  Check zoning classifications, overlays, and land use restrictions for your property.
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: (08) 9364 0666
• City of Melville Main Website

Have a question? Reach out to the City of Melville Planning Team early to clarify zoning, application types, or required documentation before you begin.

Airbnb Development Applications in the City of Melville

Planning to host short-stay guests or rent a granny flat via Airbnb? You’ll need to meet additional requirements set by the City of Melville.

Airbnb Application Essentials:

• Confirm zoning allows for short-stay use
• Submit a management plan addressing guest behaviour, parking, and noise
• Attach a justification letter covering community impact and property use
• Consult with neighbours if the proposal may affect amenity
• Ensure plans comply with building and health regulations

FAQs – Building Applications in Melville

• Do I need council approval for minor structures?
  Yes — even for patios, sheds, or fences over certain sizes.
• Can I build a granny flat on my property?
  Yes, subject to zoning, lot size, and compliance with open space requirements.
• How long does the approval process take?
  Generally 15–25 working days, depending on complexity and application completeness.
• Who approves building permits in Melville?
  City of Melville’s Planning Services Team handles all approvals.
• Do I need a survey?
  Yes — a feature and contour survey is often required and must be prepared by a licensed surveyor.

Need help preparing your building application for the City of Melville? Contact PSS Group for expert surveying and site plan services.”For personalized assistance with your building application in the City of Melville, contact our team of experts today.”