Decks – approval requirements
A deck is a flat or raised platform capable of supporting loads, which is typically constructed outdoors. Decking is often built of timber or composite materials which are moisture and termite resistant and can be freestanding or connected to another building or structure.
Where screening is installed to prevent overlooking of an adjoining property, there is a requirement for the screening to meet the minimum standards of the Residential Design Codes (R-Codes) and be a minimum height of 1.6 metres from the finished level of the deck and be of a permanently fixed, durable material.
Planning requirements
Decks more than 500mm above ground level on a residential property are required to comply with both the R-Codes and the City’s policies. The R-Codes is a state planning document that applies development controls over all residential developments in Western Australia.
Generally, decking more than 500mm above natural ground level to a single house or grouped dwelling requires a development (planning) application where:
- Is setback from a side and/or rear property boundary for your R-Code density (see table below).
- Privacy screening is provided to prevent overlooking in the neighbouring property for decking within 7.5m of a side or rear boundary. Screening is required to be 1.6m above the finished level of the deck and be permanently fixed durable material.
| R-Code Density | Minimum Side or Rear Setbacks |
| R20 | Deck length of 10-14m and privacy screen provided: 1m
Length more than 14m and/or no privacy screen provided: 1.5m |
| R20/25* | 1m |
| R20/30* | |
| R20/40* | |
| R20/60* | |
| *For lots with a dual-density code (e.g. R20/40) the requirements only apply if the property is developed at the higher density (e.g. R40). If your property has not been built to the higher density, refer to R20 requirements. | |
Should your dwelling be located within a structure plan area, additional requirements may apply.
All decks associated with multiple dwellings, commercial developments or caravan parks witll require a development (planning) application.
Decks that are no higher than 500mm from natural ground level do not require a development (planning) application.
Fees are in accordance with the Planning Services Fees and Charges.
Building permit requirements
A building permit is not required when a deck complies with all the following;
- Is no more than 20m²
- Is not more than 500mm high
- Is greater than 900mm away from any boundary
- Is not subject to bushfire prone area requirements
- Has no screening requirements.
Building permit application forms (certified or uncertified) are available from the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety website. Certified building permit applications must be accompanied with a Certificate of Design Compliance.
Please refer to the City’s Uncertified Building Application Checklist – Deck (Class 10b) for information required to be provided with the building permit application (BA2 form).
Fees are in accordance with the Building Services fees and charges.