Building Information Sheets

The following information sheets have been prepared to help you understand the requirements for building applications and provide brief design information for various topics covered by Building Services.

In addition to these sheets it may be necessary to refer to one of the City's local laws for further information relating to your query or proposal.

View the Local Laws here
View Building Checklists and Guidelines here

Do I need building approval?

Answer: Please refer to Information Sheet 1.
This Information sheet will assist you in determining if a building permit is required from the City. 

What information do I need to submit for a building permit?

Answer: Please refer to Information Sheet 2.
This sheet provides a list of documents required for your application, together with other supporting information you may need.

What is required to convert my patio, shed, carport or garage into a habitable room?

Answer: Please refer to Information Sheet 3.
This document provides information regarding the requirements to convert an existing patio, shed, carport or garage into a habitable room such as a family room, games room, sunroom or bedroom.

Do I need approval for a retaining wall?

Answer: Please refer to Information Sheet 4.
This document provides information regarding retaining walls, such as who is responsible for a retaining wall and when approval is required.

Do I need approval for a front fence?

Answer: Please refer to Information Sheet 5.
This document provides information regarding the height and materials that are acceptable for front fences, together with design considerations and when approval is required. You may like to read the Fencing Local Laws in conjunction with this Information Sheet.

What can I do about my unauthorised building works? 

Answer: Please refer to Fact Sheet 6
This document provides general information on how to get a structure that was built without a building permit authorised by the City of Kalamunda. 

What can I build without a building permit?

Answer: In most instances all types of building work will require a building permit. For works that don’t require a building permit, please refer to the list of exempted works as outlined in the Building Regulations 2012 Schedule 4 clause 2.

How do I deal with overhanging tree branches? 

Answer: Please refer to Information Sheet 7
This document provides information about neighbours rights and responsibilities when faced with overhanging branches and roots from neighbouring trees.

What is Bushfire Prone? 

Answer: Please refer to Information Sheet 8
This document provides information regarding areas the State Government Department of Planning consider to be at risk in the event of major bushfire due to the proximity of large areas of bushland. These areas have been declared bushfire prone and as such are subject to fire risk assessment. The map can be found on the Office of Bushfire Risk Management, (OBRM), portion of the Department of Fire and Emergency Services, (DFES) website

Where can I find more information on the Building Services Levy? 

Answer: Please refer to the Department of Mines, Industry Regulations and Safety website for more information including Form 81 and 82 Forms.
Website: https://www.commerce.wa.gov.au/building-and-energy/building-services-levy 

What are the fees and charges for my application? 

Answer: Please refer to Building Fees and Charges   
 

Where can I find more information about decommissioning and/or removal of swimming pools or spas? 

Answer: Please refer to the best practice notes developed by WALGA
 


 

To assist applicants in understanding the minimum level of information required for applications, two typical drawing layout sheets have been provided as a reference and can be downloaded below. 

**Please note these are examples only and do not reflect the full level of information which may be required for your own application. 

Documents

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