Understanding Building Applications in the Town of Bassendean’s Planning Framework

Building Applications in the Town of Bassendean operates under Local Planning Scheme No. 10, alongside the Metropolitan Region Scheme (MRS) and with oversight from the Western Australian Planning Commission (WAPC).

Key planning considerations:

• Zoning and land use compatibility
• Site coverage, setbacks, and height controls
• Heritage overlays and built form guidelines
• Environmental and stormwater management
• Neighbourhood character and amenity

Before preparing your application, we recommend starting with our Subdivision Feasibility Study to evaluate development potential and constraints based on zoning, access, and services.

A Feature and Contour Survey is essential to understand existing levels, vegetation, and structures—critical for meeting height controls and drainage requirements.

If your proposal involves work near boundaries, ensure accuracy with a Licensed Boundary Survey to avoid disputes or design setbacks during assessment.

Not sure what’s possible under current planning controls? Use our guide on Understanding the Potential of Your Property to gain clarity before committing to design costs.

Use the Locate WA Mapping Tool or contact the Town’s planning team to confirm your zoning and property constraints before preparing your application.

Types of Building Applications in the Town of Bassendean

Depending on your development type, you may need one or more of the following approvals:

• Residential development applications (new homes, additions, granny flats)
• Commercial or mixed-use applications
• Strata and subdivision planning approvals
• Demolition permits
• Verge permits (e.g. skip bins, construction access, hoardings)
• Short-stay accommodation applications (e.g. Airbnb)

Projects that vary from local planning policy or have potential neighbourhood impact may also require community consultation or adjoining landowner notifications.

To support your application, it’s often necessary to begin with a Feature and Contour Survey to accurately capture existing site conditions.

If your project is near title boundaries or fencing, a Licensed Boundary Survey is strongly recommended to avoid disputes or compliance issues.

Step-by-Step Guide to Submitting Your Application

1. Check Zoning and Site Constraints

• Identify your zoning and applicable development standards
• Review heritage listings, precinct plans, and setback requirements
• Ensure your proposal complies with the Town’s Local Planning Policy guidelines

If you’re unsure about your property’s potential or constraints, we recommend starting with our Subdivision Feasibility Study to assess planning risks, access options, and utility viability early in the process.

2. Prepare Required Documents

Gather and verify the following documents:

• Certified site plan (to scale, with setbacks and boundary detail)
• Floor and elevation drawings
• Landscaping plan (if applicable)
• Recent Certificate of Title
• Justification letter (if applying for design variations)
• Owner consent form (if applicant is not the owner)

Before drawing up plans, a PSS Feature Survey can capture critical site levels and structures that inform design and drainage compliance. If you’re working near fences or title edges, consider a Licensed Boundary Survey to confirm legal boundaries and avoid future disputes.

3. Lodge the Application

• Complete the relevant development or building application form
• Submit your documents through the Town of Bassendean eLodgement Portal or in person
• Pay the applicable fees based on project size and value

4. Await Assessment

• Typical processing time: 25–60 business days
• You may be asked to provide clarification or updated documents
• Some applications require public advertising or referral to external agencies

To ensure your submission meets all local requirements from the outset, explore our guide on Understanding the Potential of Your Property.

Building Applications in the Town of Bassendean Site Plan Requirements: A Detailed Breakdown

Your site plan must be accurate, to scale, and include all required technical elements to avoid delays.

Minimum requirements:

• North point and scale
• Lot boundaries, setbacks, and easements
• Existing and proposed structures
• Driveways, crossovers, and verge use
• Drainage/stormwater systems
• Open space and landscaping (if relevant)

Submit your site plan as a high-resolution PDF with clear dimensions and labels.

Need a certified, council-ready site plan? Start with a Feature and Contour Survey to ensure your plans reflect the current site conditions and comply with local planning standards.

If your proposed works are near boundaries or shared fences, Licensed Boundary Surveys are essential to confirm legal lot extents and avoid costly disputes or rejected applications.

For subdivision projects or properties with development potential, a Subdivision Feasibility Study will assess zoning, infrastructure, and compliance pathways before you lodge.

Still unsure how to begin? Explore our guide on Understanding the Potential of Your Property—a helpful starting point for first-time applicants or property owners navigating the planning system.

Common Building Application Mistakes to Avoid

These common oversights often result in delays, rejections, or unnecessary resubmissions:

• Incorrect or outdated Certificate of Title
• Missing or non-compliant site plan
• Failing to justify design variations
• Overlooking required owner consent
• Not consulting neighbours when applicable
• Submitting files in wrong format or poor resolution

To avoid these issues, start with a comprehensive Feature and Contour Survey—this foundational document ensures your design complies with height, drainage, and boundary constraints.

When working near fences, retaining walls, or shared property lines, it’s crucial to confirm legal boundaries using a Licensed Boundary Survey, helping you avoid disputes or rework.

If your site has subdivision potential, consider a Subdivision Feasibility Study to identify zoning challenges, infrastructure requirements, and financial viability before lodging an application.

And for a full overview of planning stages, approvals, and common traps, visit our guide on navigating the land development planning process.

PSS Group ensures your submission is accurate, compliant, and tailored to Bassendean’s planning policies.

Useful Resources and Contact Information

• Town of Bassendean Planning Services
  www.bassendean.wa.gov.au
  (08) 9377 8000
  [email protected]
• Online Submission Portal
  Bassendean eLodgement Portal
• Zoning and Mapping Tool
  Locate WA

For accurate documentation and boundary clarity, landowners are encouraged to consult licensed professionals such as Land Surveys or RM Surveys—both known for providing precise, council-compliant data to support planning submissions.

If your development includes complex visualisation or urban infill near heritage zones, 3D reality capture can enhance your submission by offering photorealistic models and measurable imagery for planners.

In multi-title developments or subdivisions, engaging a firm like ESO Surveyors for survey data management helps streamline compliance, reduce errors, and support long-term planning.

Airbnb Development Applications in the Town of Bassendean

Running a short-stay rental (Airbnb) in Bassendean requires a development application, especially in residential zones.

Your application must include:

• Proof of zoning and land use compatibility
• A management plan (noise, guest behaviour, contact person)
• Onsite or offsite parking and access details
• A justification statement outlining intended use and frequency
• Mitigation steps for neighbour impact

Public consultation may be required if the use is in a residential or high-impact area.

To ensure accuracy and prevent rework, consider engaging experienced providers like RM Surveys or Masters Surveying, both of which offer compliance-ready boundary surveys and subdivision advice.

If your short-stay proposal involves modern 3D data or needs to visualise impact on neighbouring properties, a 3D Reality Capture can greatly enhance your documentation and justification.

For strata properties or mixed-use developments, survey data management services can help coordinate titles, access easements, and neighbour boundaries for a smooth lodgement process.

FAQs Regarding Building Applications in the Town of Bassendean

• Do I need council approval for a home renovation?
  Yes, especially for structural changes, extensions, or works in heritage zones.
• How long does approval take?
  Usually between 25 and 60 business days, depending on complexity and documentation.
• Can I apply online?
  Yes—use the Town of Bassendean’s eLodgement Portal.
• What documents are required?
  Site plan, floor/elevation drawings, Certificate of Title, completed form, justification letter (if needed), and fees.
• Can I get approval to build a granny flat or Airbnb?
  Yes. Both require planning approval and must meet local zoning and use guidelines.

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