Understanding Building Applications in the Shire of Serpentine-Jarrahdale Planning Framework

Building Applications in the Shire of Serpentine-Jarrahdale regulates all development through a combination of local and state planning instruments, including:

• Local Planning Scheme No. 3
• State Planning Policies
• Metropolitan Region Scheme (MRS)
• Local Planning Policies and Development Codes

These documents dictate zoning, permissible land use, building setbacks, and design requirements. Before planning your project, use the SJ Shire Online Mapping Tool to check zoning and determine your property’s development potential.

To ensure your plans comply with council requirements, consider starting with a Feature and Contour Survey. If you’re unsure what services you need, browse our Licensed Surveying page or check our FAQs for guidance. You can also contact us directly to speak with a local surveying expert.

Types of Building Applications in the Shire of Serpentine-Jarrahdale

Depending on the scope of your project, you may need to lodge one or more of the following:

• Development Application (DA): For new buildings, extensions, change of land use, or developments outside standard planning provisions. Before starting, it’s helpful to review your options by understanding the potential of your property.
• Building Permit Application: Required before commencing any physical construction work. In most cases, a Feature and Contour Survey is essential for council approval and design planning.
• Occupancy Permit: Needed to legally occupy a completed building. This step often requires an As-Constructed Survey to verify compliance.
• Subdivision or Amalgamation Application: To divide land into lots or combine them. Explore how we help with land division in our Subdivision Feasibility Study.
• Airbnb or Short-Term Accommodation DA: Required for any short-stay accommodation use—even for existing dwellings.

Each application type has different documentation, fees, and processing times, so it’s important to match your submission to your specific project.

Step-by-Step Guide to Submitting a Building Application

Step 1: Book Pre-Lodgement Advice

Arrange a pre-application consultation with the Shire’s Planning Services. This is especially useful for projects with potential zoning issues, design variations, or complex overlays.

Step 2: Prepare Documentation

Most applications require the following:

• A scaled site plan showing all proposed and existing structures
• Floor plans and elevation drawings
• A current Certificate of Title
• A cover letter or justification statement explaining the proposal
• Additional reports such as bushfire assessments, landscaping plans, or heritage impact statements, depending on the site

Need assistance preparing these documents? Explore our Survey Drafting and Site Plan Services for feature and contour surveys essential to a compliant application.

Step 3: Complete the Application Form

Download the relevant forms from the Shire’s Building Services page. For detailed tips on optimising your land’s potential, read our guide: Understanding the Potential of Your Property.

Step 4: Lodge Your Application

Submit via one of the following:

• The WA Planning Portal
• Email to [email protected]
• In person at 6 Paterson Street, Mundijong WA

Step 5: Pay the Application Fee

Fees vary based on development value. See the Shire’s current fee schedule for details.

Step 6: Track and Await Approval

Typical timeframes:

• Certified Building Permits: 10 business days
• Development Applications: 25+ business days depending on complexity

Considering a subdivision? Start with a Subdivision Feasibility Study to assess viability and streamline your path to approval. If boundaries need confirmation, our Licensed Boundary Surveys ensure your plans meet all regulatory requirements.

Shire of Serpentine-Jarrahdale Site Plan Requirements: A Detailed Breakdown

A compliant site plan must include:

• Lot boundaries, dimensions, and a north point
• Setbacks from boundaries
• Existing and proposed structures
• Driveways, crossover points, and parking spaces
• Sewer and stormwater layouts
• Easements, rights-of-way, and contours (if applicable)

Tip: Poor-quality or incomplete site plans are a common cause of delays.

For help with your site plans, view our Feature and Contour Survey services designed to meet Shire requirements. If you’re uncertain about your lot boundaries or need legal verification, our Licensed Boundary Surveys ensure accuracy from the outset. We also recommend exploring how Understanding the Potential of Your Property can unlock development opportunities. For large-scale projects or land development planning, our team can assist with a full Subdivision Feasibility Study.

Common Building Application Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding these pitfalls can save you weeks:

• Submitting without elevation drawings
• Failing to include a signed owner consent form
• Ignoring zoning restrictions or planning overlays
• Omitting supporting documents (e.g. bushfire reports)
• Submitting outdated certificates of title
• Incomplete digital submissions
• Not paying the full planning or building application fee

Always cross-check your submission using the [Planning Application Checklist] provided by the Shire.

To ensure your documents are accurate from the start, consider beginning with a Feature and Contour Survey to map your site correctly. If your application involves land reconfiguration, a Subdivision Feasibility Study can help assess your development options. For boundary-related issues or ownership disputes, see our Guide to Boundary Surveys. And if you’re unsure how to start, Understanding the Potential of Your Property offers a clear overview for homeowners and developers alike.

Useful Resources and Contact Information

Shire of Serpentine-Jarrahdale Official Resources:

• Planning Application Forms
• Zoning and Mapping Tool
• Building Regulations & Policies
• Current Fees and Charges

Contact Details:

• (08) 9526 1111
• [email protected]
• 6 Paterson Street, Mundijong WA 6123
• sjshire.wa.gov.au

Airbnb Development Applications within the Shire of Serpentine-Jarrahdale

If you’re planning to operate a short-term rental (Airbnb), you must lodge a Development Application if:

• You’re converting your home or ancillary dwelling for guest use
• You’re changing the use of an existing structure

Common submission requirements include:

• Floor plans and site layout
• Parking details (including guest spots)
• Maximum guest capacity
• Emergency and fire compliance
• Owner contact details
• Neighbour consultation details (may be requested)

Short-stay uses are assessed based on amenity, location, and compliance with safety regulations. For further insights into site planning and compliance mapping, firms like MNG Survey and Land Surveys offer helpful technical resources. If you’re considering 3D site capture for layout precision, explore Land Surveys’ 3D Reality Capture. For digital record-keeping or large-scale planning, ESO Surveyors also provide advanced survey data management tools.

FAQs About Building Applications in SJ Shire

• What documents are required for a building application?
  You’ll typically need a site plan, floor plan, elevation drawings, certificate of title, and a cover letter. Some projects may also require bushfire assessments, engineering documents, or landscaping plans.
• How can I check the zoning of my property?
  Use the SJ Shire’s Online Mapping Tool to view zoning, overlays, and development conditions specific to your lot.
• What happens if my application is incomplete?
  Incomplete applications are placed on hold until all information is submitted—delaying the approval process.
• Can I speak to someone before lodging my application?
  Yes. Pre-lodgement consultations are available and highly recommended to help you clarify requirements and reduce rejection risk.
• What are the planning fees for residential building applications?
  Fees vary depending on the estimated value of the development. For example, applications under $50,000 may start at $147, with tiered pricing for higher values.

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