Building
Scott Geere is the Manager of Building Services for the Shire of Dandaragan. He is responsible for all aspects involving building issues from construction to demolition.
Below we have provided some of the most commonly asked questions. We hope you find the information useful. If you have any further questions contact the Building Services department on 9652 0823.
When do I require a building licence?
A Building Licence is required to be obtained before the commencement of construction of any building and where it is proposed to carry out any structural alteration or addition to an existing building. You can download a building licence application at the bottom of the page.
Examples of buildings include:
- Dwellings
- Sheds
- Garages
- Swimming Pools
- Masonry fences over 1200mm in height
- Retaining walls
- Free standing patios and pergolas
Submitting a Building Application
A Building Licence Application consists of documents which are assessed by the Building Surveyor for compliance. Two copies (sets) of plans and specifications are to be submitted with one set being returned to the Builder with the Building Licence.
The application is processed and conditions may be imposed. It is important to read these conditions as they are to be complied with during construction. Should the applicant object to any of the conditions imposed, the right of appeal exists.
Dividing Fences
Fences are classified as buildings under the Building Code of Australia. However, only those fences constructed of masonry material such as brick or limestone over 1500mm in height require a Building Licence.
Council's Fencing Local laws set out the requirements as to what materials are acceptable, and controls the height of fences within the Shire of Dandaragan. Council does not administer the provisions of the Dividing Fences Act. A brochure is available from the main administration office that details the property owner's responsibilities pursuant to the Dividing Fences Act.
Filling & Excavation of Land
The application must comply with the requirements of the Residential Design Codes and Council's Town Planning Scheme. If you intend placing fill, or excavating land, you should contact the Council so as to ensure that any approvals that are required are obtained.
What do I need Council approval for?
- Pools (above & below ground)
- Decking around pools
- Spas
- Shade structures
- Pergolas/patios/carports/sheds
- Re-roof
- Renovations (Internal & External)
- Retaining Walls
- Dwellings
- Commercial Buildings
- Demolitions
- Additions/Extensions
- Fences
What don’t I need Council approval for?
- Sheds less than 3m x 3m in size
- Some fences
- Temporary site sheds during construction
How close can I build to my site boundary?
As each property's setbacks and building envelopes differ, you will need to contact Council's Manager of Building Services for information relating to your property. Setbacks must comply with the Residential Design Codes.
What plans do I need to submit with a building licence application?
- Two sets of dimensioned site plans showing the proposed work and any other existing buildings on the site.
- Two floor/roof plans.
- Elevations of the proposed work.
- Two sets of specifications for the proposed works.
Fees
- Residential (class 1 & 10 Buildings) - Estimated value including GST x .31818%
- Commercial (Class 2-9 Buildings) - Estimated value including GST x .1818%
- Building and Construction Industry Training Fund Levy - Comes into effect when the estimated value of the work exceeds $20,000. Estimated values including GST x .0.2% as January 2007
- Builders Registration Board fee - All applications must pay the $37.00 fee as of 1 July 2007.
- Septic Tank Fee $202.00 for a standard installation as from July 2007.
You can download the building licence application and the notes by clicking on the documents below.
Click here to download notes to accompany building licence application.
Click here to download Building Notes
Other Useful Documents
Click here to download a Crossover Contribution Application
Click here to download a Application to Construct an Apparatus
Policy on outbuildings
Rural Residential & Special Use - Rural Development Zone
Notice to homeowners: The Shire of Dandaragan wishes to advise all home owners that due to copyright laws we are unable to provide copies of house plans without the written permission of the author of the plans.
Local Governments are obliged to respect copyright laws or face a risk of prosecution.

