Development includes buildings, earthworks and land uses, whether rural, residential or commercial.

Most development will require planning approval from the Shire. However, applications with an estimated development value of $2 million or more, may involve the WA Planning Commission, via the Joint Development Assessment Panel (JDAP). Minor outbuildings and residential additions may be exempt.

Planning applications are assessed against the Shire's Local Planning Scheme No. 4 and the Residential Design Codes and may require consultation with the community and relevant State Government agencies.

We encourage you to contact the Shire's Planning Service to check your zoning and whether your proposal would require planning approval. 

Check the zoning of a property in our online maps. 

Most applications for planning approval can be dealt with at Officer level within 60 days, however, certain applications may need public advertising, agency referrals or the approval of Council, which may lengthen the processing time.

Apply for Planning Approval 

A planning approval is a legal document giving permission for a land use or development.

The development or use could be anything from demolishing or extending your house, running a business from home, to earthworks, keeping livestock or clearing native vegetation.

Planning decisions take into account the impact a new building or land use will have on the community. 

The planning approval application form and checklist are required to be submitted with your application.

Planning Approval Application Form (PDF)

Modification to Planning Approval Application Form (PDF)

Proposed Commercial Vehicle Parking Details (PDF)

If you are not sure which plans would be required for your application, or if specialist studies are required such as traffic or heritage assessment, or flora and fauna studies, please contact the Planning Team on (08) 9290 6740. 

Submit your application by post, in person or email to shire@mundaring.wa.gov.au. Upon acceptance of your application, the Planning Support Officer will phone you to arrange credit card payment of the planning application fee.

Please note: Incomplete applications will not be lodged. 

If you are planning a new house or renovation, refer to our environmentally friendly design page and the following brochure can assist you with design tips.

Solar Passive Building Design

Advertising of planning applications (public consultation)

In determining what level of advertising is appropriate for a planning application, the Shire refers to Local Planning Scheme No. 4 (LPS4) and policy on advertising planning applications (see below).

Advertising Planning Proposals (PS-01)

Understanding the planning systems and processes

Today, many people and government agencies interact in the planning process to ensure that our towns, cities and regions grow in a sustainable way. Planning controls are required to meet the different needs of people living and working together.

Town planning coordinates land use and development by balancing economic, social and environmental issues.

Planning legislation, policy and statutory processes guide decisions that shape communities and provide quality of life for people living in those communities.

There are two key components of planning:

  • Strategic planning, which focuses on the big picture and on setting a framework for future development of towns and regions in Western Australia, to effectively
    guide land supply, land use, and urban and regional development.
  • Statutory planning, which is guided by legislation and concerns the day-to-day decision making by the various responsible authorities on planning schemes, subdivision and development proposals.

More information and contact

For more information contact Planning Services on (08) 9290 6740, email shire@mundaring.wa.gov.au or visit us in person at the Shire office, 7000 Great Eastern Highway, Mundaring (opening hours are Monday - Friday 9am - 4.30pm). No appointment is necessary for most enquiries, however it is best to call ahead if you wish to arrange a pre-lodgement meeting to discuss detailed plans.

Residential Design Codes

Development in Bushfire Prone Areas

Ancillary Dwellings and Granny Flats

Tiny Homes

Holiday and Short Stay Accommodation

Home Business and Cottage Industries

Transportable Structures