Understanding Building Applications in the Shire of Peppermint Grove’s Planning Framework

Building Applications in the Shire of Peppermint Grove is renowned for its tree-lined streets, heritage character, and prestige. To protect this unique environment, the Shire enforces strict planning controls through:

• Local Planning Scheme No. 4
• State Planning Policies (SPPs)
• Metropolitan Region Scheme (MRS)
• Heritage Conservation Policies
• Local Design Guidelines and Streetscape Standards

Before preparing your plans, use the Shire’s Planning Forms and Resources to check your zoning, assess heritage status, and understand overlay restrictions that could impact your design or development. To support accurate submissions, consider a PSS Feature Survey to map your site’s existing conditions. For tailored advice or to discuss your next project, feel free to contact the team at Perth Surveying.

Types of Building Applications in the Shire of Peppermint Grove

The type of approval required depends on your project’s scope, zoning, and heritage significance. The main categories include:

• Development Application (DA)
  Required for land use changes, building on heritage-listed properties, or where proposed development exceeds standard planning parameters. If you’re considering a short-stay use or subdividing land, our Subdivision Feasibility Study can help you assess viability early.
• Building Permit
  Needed for any structural works—such as home extensions, new dwellings, carports, garages, pools, or pergolas. To prepare, you may require a Feature and Contour Survey to accurately capture your site’s existing conditions.
• Occupancy Permit
  Required when occupying a new or modified Class 2–9 building (e.g. apartments or commercial premises). You can explore our experience with Apartment Projects to see how our data supports successful multi-res builds.
• Demolition Permit
  Mandatory for any demolition—partial or complete—particularly for heritage-listed or character-sensitive structures. For these scenarios, ensuring Licensed Boundary Surveys are in place helps protect adjoining property lines and legal compliance.
• Subdivision / Amalgamation
  Submitted via the WA Planning Commission, with local assessment by the Shire of Peppermint Grove.
• Short-Stay Accommodation / Airbnb DA
  Any form of short-stay use (e.g. Airbnb) requires a development application and will be assessed for amenity impact, guest parking, and zoning suitability.

Step-by-Step Guide to Submitting Your Application

Step 1: Request Pre-Lodgement Advice

Speak with a Shire planner to confirm application requirements, potential constraints, and to identify any additional heritage or landscaping considerations. This step is highly recommended, especially for first-time applicants or unique proposals.

Step 2: Prepare Your Supporting Documents

A complete submission typically includes:

• A scaled site plan (1:100 or 1:200)
• Floor plans and elevation drawings
• A current Certificate of Title
• Owner consent form
• Landscaping plan, if required
• A justification letter or heritage impact statement (for heritage sites)

Need a compliant site plan? Contact PSS Group’s Site Plan Team for expert documentation tailored to Peppermint Grove standards. If you’re unsure where to start, explore our guide on feature and contour surveys—essential for accurate design and council approval.

Step 3: Complete the Appropriate Form

Use the forms available on the Shire’s Planning Forms Page, or submit via the WA Planning Portal for certain subdivision or region-scheme applications.

Planning a subdivision? Our subdivision feasibility study service helps you understand your site’s full potential before committing to plans.

Step 4: Lodge Your Application

Submit your application either:

• In person or via email to the Shire
• Through the WA Planning Portal for applicable proposals

Step 5: Pay Application Fees

Fees are based on the value and type of development. Contact the Shire on (08) 9286 8600 or visit their Fees & Charges page for accurate estimates.

Step 6: Track and Await Approval

• Certified Building Permits – ~10 business days
• Development Applications – 25 to 60 business days, depending on complexity, referrals, and public advertising

To ensure no delays, review our article on navigating the land development planning process to stay one step ahead.

Shire of Peppermint Grove Site Plan Requirements: A Detailed Breakdown

Your site plan must clearly include:

• Lot boundaries and dimensions
• North point and scale
• Setbacks from all property line
• Location of all existing and proposed buildings
• Driveways, vehicle parking areas, crossovers
• Retaining walls, drainage, and stormwater details
• Landscaping (existing and proposed), especially street-facing areas
• Trees for removal or retention

Applications are often delayed due to poor site plans. Hire a licensed surveyor or drafting specialist to avoid rework.

Common Building Application Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common errors to speed up approval and maintain compliance:

• Submitting incomplete or outdated documents
• Missing a heritage impact assessment (for heritage-zoned properties)
• Failing to include required elevation drawings or landscape plans
• Miscalculating setbacks or non-compliant site coverage
• Omitting the owner consent form
• Underestimating fees or forgetting to pay
• Not factoring in public consultation timelines for certain developments

Always review the Building Application Checklist before lodging.

Useful Resources and Contact Information

Key Resources:

• Planning and Building Forms – Shire of Peppermint Grove
• WA Planning Portal – DPLH
• Heritage Place Search – Heritage Council WA
• Metropolitan Region Scheme Info

Contact the Shire:

• Address: 1 Leake Street, Peppermint Grove WA 6011
• Phone: (08) 9286 8600
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: www.peppermintgrove.wa.gov.au

Airbnb Development Applications in Peppermint Grove

If you’re planning to host an Airbnb or any short-stay use, you’ll need development approval.

Typical submission requirements include:

• Site and floor plans
• Parking provision (minimum 1 bay per guest unit)
• Guest numbers and operational plan
• Fire safety compliance
• Owner contact and host management details
• Supporting letter outlining impact on neighbours

For accurate plans and data capture, you may consider services like 3D Reality Capture by Land Surveys or explore providers such as MNG Survey for high-definition mapping capabilities.

For end-to-end data integration, ESO Surveyors’ data management services provide a benchmark in streamlined planning. Additionally, see how firms like Survey Group approach spatial data for short-stay developments.

Short-stay use will be assessed on location, amenity, and scale. Heritage properties or quiet residential zones may face stricter scrutiny.

FAQs About Building Applications in Peppermint Grove

• Do I need council approval to renovate a heritage-listed home?
  Yes. All external changes, even minor ones, require planning approval.
• Where can I check my zoning or overlay restrictions?
  Contact the Shire’s planning team or refer to their mapping resources and the MRS.
• Is a verge permit required for construction work?
  Yes. If access or deliveries impact footpaths, a verge permit is necessary.
• Can I lodge my application online?
  Yes. Many forms are accepted via email, and some can be submitted through the WA Planning Portal.
• What documents are required for a basic application?
  Site plan, floor plan, elevations, certificate of title, owner consent, and potentially a heritage or landscaping plan.

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