Building or renovating can be exciting, but council approvals often cause stress. Vance Thompson from Thompson Design joined Doug on Table Talk to share his expert advice on how to make the process smoother.

Two Main Approval Paths

“People don’t realise there are actually two processes,” Vance explains. The first is planning approval. The second is the building permit.

Small projects like patios, pergolas, or minor additions often only need a building permit. However, if your design steps outside the Residential Design Codes (the rules for setbacks, window placements, and overshadowing) you’ll likely face the more complex planning approval process. That can take up to 90 days.

Know the Residential Design Codes

These codes apply across Western Australia, but councils can add their own rules. “Some councils have extra guidelines,” Vance says. “They might want certain colours or materials in specific suburbs.”

Keeping your project within the codes can save months of delays.

Developer Covenants in New Estates

If you’re building in a new subdivision, check for developer covenants. “These can dictate roof pitch or façade design to keep the suburb looking consistent,” Vance notes. They usually apply for the first two or three years but can add another layer of requirements on top of council rules.

Good News for Granny Flats

State government changes now allow granny flats up to 70m² on blocks over 350m² without planning approval. Go straight to a building permit if your design meets the codes. “If you’ve got the right people on board, you can get approval in ten working days,” Vance says.

Understand Zoning Before You Buy

Zoning affects setbacks, open space requirements, and how much you can build. “Know the zoning now and what it could be in the future,” Vance advises. Some properties have subdivision potential, which can raise the price even if you don’t plan to develop.

Avoid Delays with the Right Team

The biggest time-saver is engaging experienced professionals early draftsperson, building certifier, structural engineer, and energy assessor. “A clean, complete application is more likely to get a quick approval,” Vance says.

Plan Your Design Carefully

Sketch your ideas before speaking to professionals. “Pictures say a thousand words,” Vance explains.
Free tools like Google SketchUp can help visualise your idea, but expect professionals to spend significant time refining them into certified plans.

Factor in Structural Realities

Load-bearing walls, ceiling heights, and waterproofing can turn a simple idea into a costly project.
Vance starts by measuring the existing structure “to the millimetre” before drawing any new designs.

Meet New Energy Standards

Since May, new builds and additions must meet seven-star energy ratings. Get an energy assessor involved early to avoid costly redesigns later.

To summarize, keep your design within the codes, know your zoning, and work with local experts.
“The right people make the process far less stressful,” Vance says. “And sometimes, much faster.”