Building

When is a building licence required?

A building licence is required for all structures including alterations, additions, swimming pools and spas - either above or below ground.

Building Code of Australia (BCA)

The method and materials used in the construction of a dwelling must comply with the requirements of the BCA and your builder must design your development to comply with the BCA. If you have any questions regarding the BCA, our building surveyors can assist you with your enquiry.

When is planning approval required?

Please check with us to see if planning approval is required before a building licence can be issued. Planning approval is not normally needed for a single house if it complies with the City’s District Planning Scheme 2 and the Residential Design Codes. In certain parts of the City other development standards may apply, for example within the Joondalup City Centre. See the City’s District Planning Scheme for details.

Development standards for single houses

Many of the development standards for single houses are contained in the Residential Design Codes. Please check with us if there are any specific development requirements for your single house. Normally a single house within an R20 zone should be designed with the following considerations in mind. Standards may vary in some areas of the City.

• The total area of buildings must not cover more than 50 per cent of the lot area.
• A minimum of three metres with an average of six metres from the front boundary to the dwelling.
• Garages should be set back 4.5 metres from the primary street. This may be reduced if the garage adjoins a dwelling.
• Building setbacks to the side boundaries should comply with the Residential Design Codes.
• Single houses must comply with City policies. Please consider the height and scale of buildings in residential areas Policy 3.2  and the Retaining Walls Policy. Location, boundary clearances and the area of open space must comply with the requirements of the Residential Design Codes or structure plans.

Reference documents

A copy of the BCA can be viewed at Joondalup Library, or you can purchase a copy online from the Australian Building Codes Board website.

A copy of the Residential Design Codes can be viewed at Planning WA's website.