What are examples of multi-generational living?

When proposing a multi-generational home, it’s crucial to think ahead. As you begin to consider what your living arrangement will be like, it is important to plan well into the future. What needs will you have? The more time and effort you put into the planning process, the better suited your living arrangement will be, not only for today but well into the future.

 A ‘granny flat’ (ancillary dwelling) is the most common form of multigenerational living and can be a self-contained addition to, or part of, an existing home, or a separate building on the property. For example, you may decide to:   

• build and live in a self-contained unit in the backyard of your adult child’s home or perhaps the home of your elderly parents
• live in a small suite in the home of your adult child and/or their young family

Making sure there is a bedroom on the lower level, for example, is one way to future proof an existing or proposed house. While the older generation may be able to walk up and down stairs currently, in a few year’s time they may wish to remain downstairs. Similarly, ensuring there is a full-service bathroom on the main living level is also a good idea.

Note: Whilst ancillary dwellings can be used for multi-generational purposes, they are not limited to occupancy by relatives of the main house.

What approvals need to be obtained from the Shire?

Prior to commencing any such work, Planning approval will need to be obtained from the Shire if any of the following applies:

• the property is within a bushfire prone area
• the property is within a zoning under the Local Planning Scheme which requires Planning approval to be obtained for the land use
• the property is on the Shire’s current Heritage List
• the proposed works do not comply with any requirements stipulated under (where applicable) the Residential Design Codes, Local Planning Scheme and/or any other applicable Planning legislation

A building permit will also be required for any new building and may be required for any proposed addition and/or internal alteration to an existing building.

Approval from the Shire’s Environmental Health Services will also be required for any new or upgraded effluent disposal system proposed.

Prior to applying for planning approval, Shire Officers are able to undertake a preliminary assessment of your proposal, which would allow for any potential issues to be identified early on. For this to be done, a site plan, elevations and floor plan showing the proposed development, and a $73 fee, will need to be provided to the Shire’s Planning department.

If you have any queries regarding the required approvals and/or preliminary assessment process please contact the relevant Shire department (Planning, Building or Environmental Health department) on (08) 9290 6740 or via shire@mundaring.wa.gov.au

What matters are considered by the Shire when determining a Planning application for a multi-generational buildings?

When considering such proposals the Shire shall have regard to: 

1. the Zoning Objectives under the Shire’s Local Planning Scheme
2. the area’s existing and desired future character of the locality where it is proposed
3. whether the property has any cultural heritage significance
4. the location of any significant vegetation and watercourses
5. whether a building envelope exists on site
6. the location of any effluent disposal system
7. any adopted State and local planning policy
8. any other matters which the Shire considers to be relevant

What Information needs to be provided for a Planning application?

A Planning application must be accompanied by, as a minimum:

1.  a completed Planning application form
2. the property’s current Certificate of Title
3. the Planning application fee
4. a site plan showing the proposed location and setbacks of the proposed works from the nearest lot boundaries, significant trees, effluent disposal system, driveway, other buildings on the site, and (if applicable) watercourse
5. elevations showing the external appearance and the dimensions of the building
6. an internal floor plan showing the purpose of each area/room and their dimensions
7. if to be located within a Bushfire Prone Area, a Bushfire Attack Level Assessment and a Bushfire Management Statement in accordance with State Planning Policy 3.7
8. if to be located on or adjacent to a property which is on the State Heritage Register and/or the Shire’s Heritage List, a heritage impact statement prepared in accordance with the Heritage Council of Western Australia’s requirements