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

Building Applications in the Town of Cambridge operates under Local Planning Scheme No. 1, supported by the Metropolitan Region Scheme (MRS) and overseen by the Western Australian Planning Commission (WAPC).

Key planning principles include:

• Land use and zoning compliance
• Heritage and streetscape preservation
• Landscaping and environmental impact
• Compliance with design and setback guidelines

Before preparing your application, check your property’s zoning and review any precinct-specific or heritage restrictions. If you’re unsure where to begin, our FAQs cover the most common planning and building concerns.

Accurate documentation starts with a solid foundation—our Feature and Contour Surveys provide the site data councils require. For broader support throughout your project, explore our full range of Licensed Surveying services tailored for Cambridge developments.

To see how we’ve helped clients on similar urban projects, view our recent apartment developments.

Types of Building Applications in the Town of Cambridge

Depending on the nature of your development, you may require one or more of the following approvals:

• Residential building permits (new homes, alterations, additions)
• Commercial and mixed-use developments
• Strata and subdivision planning applications
• Airbnb and short-stay accommodation approvals
• Demolition permits
• Verge permits (for construction access, skips, or scaffolding)

Each application must comply with the Town’s planning regulations, and some may require community consultation or adjoining landowner notification.

Step-by-Step Guide to Submitting Your Application

1. Check Zoning and Planning Requirements

• Use the Planning Scheme Map or Locate WA to confirm your zoning.
• Review the applicable design guidelines and land use categories.
• Ensure your project complies with setbacks, coverage, and heritage requirements.

If you’re not sure how to start planning, use our guide on understanding the potential of your property to assess opportunities early.

2. Prepare Your Documentation

Gather and certify required documents:

• Site plan to scale
• Floor and elevation drawings
• Landscaping plan (if applicable)
• Certificate of Title
• Justification letter (for any non-compliance or variations)
• Owner consent (if applicable)

For site plans and elevation accuracy, we recommend starting with a Feature and Contour Survey. This survey provides the foundational data needed for council compliance.

3. Submit Your Application

• Complete the official Development or Building Application Form
• Submit online through the Cambridge eLodgement Portal or in person
• Attach all documents and pay applicable fees

If you’re considering subdividing land, our Subdivision Feasibility Study helps assess viability before lodging your application.

4. Pay Fees and Await Assessment

• Application fees vary depending on project type and value
• Most applications are assessed within 25–60 business days
• You may be contacted for additional information or neighbour consultation

Ensure boundary accuracy with a Licensed Boundary Survey to avoid delays or compliance issues during review.

Town of Cambridge Site Plan Requirements: A Detailed Breakdown

A professional site plan is crucial for assessment. It must include:

• North point and scale
• Existing and proposed structures
• Property boundaries and setbacks
• Driveways, crossovers, and verge details
• Stormwater and drainage layout
• Easements, encumbrances, and landscaping (if applicable)

Submit your plan in PDF format, drawn to scale by a qualified professional for best results. For a strong foundation, start with a Feature and Contour Survey—a key requirement in most local council submissions.

If your project involves defining or confirming property limits, our Licensed Boundary Surveys ensure legal accuracy. For those considering subdivision, begin with a Subdivision Feasibility Study to evaluate what’s possible under current zoning.

For complete planning and submission support, explore our full range of Licensed Surveying Services tailored to Town of Cambridge projects.

Common Building Application Mistakes to Avoid

Avoidable mistakes can delay your approval or cause unnecessary resubmissions. Common issues include:

• Incomplete or incorrect site plans
• Incorrect zoning or overlooking special planning controls
• Missing justification letters for design variations
• Failing to notify neighbouring property owners (when required)
• Omitting required documents like the Certificate of Title

Start with the right data—our Feature and Contour Surveys ensure your site plans meet council accuracy requirements. For subdivision projects, a Subdivision Feasibility Study can save weeks of back and forth by aligning your plans with zoning and infrastructure guidelines.

Boundary clarity is critical. Avoid costly resubmissions by getting a Licensed Boundary Survey to ensure legal accuracy before you submit. And if you’re unsure where to begin, explore our complete range of Licensed Surveying services designed to help you get it right the first time.

Useful Resources and Contact Information

• Town of Cambridge Planning Services
  www.cambridge.wa.gov.au
  (08) 9347 6000
  [email protected]
• Online Submission Portal
  Cambridge eLodgement
• Mapping Too
  Locate WA – Zoning and Scheme Map

Before submitting your application, it’s essential to understand your property’s zoning and local design constraints. Our guide on understanding the potential of your property can help you assess feasibility early.

For new builds, extensions, or development proposals, you’ll likely need accurate Feature and Contour Surveys to meet the Town of Cambridge’s planning requirements. If your project involves splitting or developing land, consider a Subdivision Feasibility Study to assess your options before lodgement.

Boundary clarity is essential for a smooth application. Start with Licensed Boundary Surveys to ensure your plans align with property lines and avoid costly delays.

Airbnb Development Applications within the Town of Cambridge

If you’re planning to operate an Airbnb or short-stay accommodation in Cambridge, you’ll need a development application. This ensures the property use complies with zoning and doesn’t negatively impact surrounding neighbours.

Your application should include:

• Confirmation of zoning and permissible land use
• Guest management and emergency contact plan
• Waste and parking arrangements
• Justification letter outlining operation details

To confirm zoning and permissible use, you may wish to consult experienced planning surveyors like MNG Survey.

For advanced site visualisation or modelling required in your application, Land Surveys’ 3D Reality Capture can assist in creating highly accurate property scans.

If you’re managing ongoing or multiple listings, ESO Surveyors offers survey data management tools to streamline documentation and approvals.

Additionally, trusted firms such as Survey Group provide compliance-driven consulting services to support zoning alignment and community consultation for short-stay applications.

Some applications may be advertised for public comment before approval.

FAQs Regarding Building Applications in the Town of Cambridge

• Do I need approval for a home renovation?
  Yes, if it involves structural changes, external works, or heritage-listed buildings.
• How long does the approval process take?
  On average, 25–60 business days depending on the complexity and completeness of the application.
• Can I lodge an application online?
  Yes, via the Cambridge eLodgement Portal.
• What documents are mandatory for a building application?
  Site plan, floor plans, elevation drawings, Certificate of Title, completed form, and any supporting documents.
• Can I submit a plan for an Airbnb or granny flat?
  Yes, but both require approval. Airbnb also needs management documentation and zoning compliance.

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