City of Canning Development Application Checklist

The City of Canning in Western Australia has established a comprehensive framework for development applications, ensuring that all projects meet the community's standards and regulations. This checklist is designed to guide applicants through the process, helping to streamline the submission and approval of development proposals. Whether you're planning a small residential renovation or a large commercial project, following this checklist will ensure that your application is complete and meets all the necessary requirements.

1. Understanding the Development Application Process

Before diving into the specific items on the checklist, it’s important to have a general understanding of the development application process in the City of Canning. The process typically involves several stages, including pre-application consultation, submission of the application, assessment by the City’s planning officers, public consultation (if required), and final determination by the relevant authorities.

Pre-application Consultation: Before submitting your application, it is advisable to consult with the City’s planning officers. This step can help identify any potential issues early in the process, saving time and resources. This consultation can clarify the requirements specific to your project and provide guidance on how to address them.

Submission of Application: Once you have prepared all the necessary documents, you can submit your application either online or in person. The submission must include all required forms, plans, and supporting documents as outlined in this checklist.

Assessment and Public Consultation: After submission, the City’s planning officers will assess your application against the relevant planning policies and guidelines. If the proposal is likely to have a significant impact on the community, it may be advertised for public comment. This public consultation period allows the community to provide feedback on the proposal.

Final Determination: Based on the assessment and any public comments received, the application will be determined by either the City’s planning officers or, for larger or more complex proposals, the City’s Development Assessment Panel (DAP). The final determination could result in approval, conditional approval, or refusal of the application.

2. Checklist for Development Application

The checklist is divided into several key sections, each focusing on different aspects of the application. It's crucial to ensure that all sections are completed accurately to avoid delays in the approval process.

2.1. General Requirements

• Application Form: Complete the City of Canning Development Application Form. Ensure that all sections are filled out accurately, including the description of the proposed development and the property details.
• Application Fee: Pay the required application fee, which varies depending on the type and scale of the development. The fee schedule is available on the City’s website.
• Certificate of Title: Provide a recent copy of the Certificate of Title for the property. This document verifies ownership and any encumbrances on the land.

2.2. Site Plans

• Site Plan: Submit a detailed site plan that includes the location of existing buildings, proposed new structures, property boundaries, and any significant landscape features. The plan should be drawn to scale and include dimensions.
• Contour Plan: If your development involves changes to the land's topography, provide a contour plan showing existing and proposed ground levels. This is particularly important for developments on sloping sites.

2.3. Building Plans

• Floor Plans: Provide detailed floor plans for all proposed buildings. These plans should show the layout of each floor, including room dimensions, windows, doors, and any other relevant features.
• Elevations: Submit elevation drawings that show the exterior appearance of the proposed buildings from all sides. Elevations should include details of materials, finishes, and any architectural features.
• Cross Sections: For complex structures, provide cross-section drawings that show the relationship between different parts of the building and the ground. This is especially important for developments involving multiple levels or unusual designs.

2.4. Supporting Documents

• Planning Report: A planning report should accompany your application, providing a detailed description of the proposal and addressing how it complies with the relevant planning policies. The report should also outline any potential impacts on the surrounding area and how these will be mitigated.
• Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA): If your development is likely to have a significant environmental impact, you may be required to submit an EIA. This assessment should identify any potential environmental risks and propose measures to minimize them.
• Traffic Impact Assessment (TIA): For developments that are expected to generate significant traffic, a TIA may be required. This report should assess the potential impact on the local road network and propose solutions to manage any issues.
• Landscape Plan: If your development includes landscaping, submit a landscape plan showing the proposed planting scheme, hardscaping features, and any other relevant details. This plan should be designed by a qualified landscape architect.
• Heritage Impact Statement: If your development is located in a heritage area or involves a heritage-listed building, provide a Heritage Impact Statement. This statement should assess the impact of the development on the heritage significance of the site and propose measures to preserve its character.

2.5. Additional Requirements

• Bushfire Management Plan: For developments in bushfire-prone areas, submit a Bushfire Management Plan outlining how the development will address bushfire risks. This plan should be prepared by a qualified bushfire consultant.
• Noise Impact Assessment: If your development is likely to generate significant noise, a Noise Impact Assessment may be required. This report should assess the potential noise impacts on the surrounding area and propose mitigation measures.
• Stormwater Management Plan: Provide a Stormwater Management Plan detailing how stormwater will be managed on-site. This plan should include calculations of stormwater runoff and the proposed drainage system.

3. Submission and Review

Once you have completed the checklist and gathered all the required documents, you can submit your application to the City of Canning. It’s important to ensure that all documents are accurate and complete to avoid delays in the review process.

3.1. Online Submission: The City of Canning offers an online submission portal where you can upload all your documents and pay the application fee. This is the preferred method of submission, as it allows for faster processing and tracking of your application.

3.2. In-Person Submission: If you prefer, you can also submit your application in person at the City’s offices. Make sure to bring all the required documents and the correct fee.

3.3. Review Process: After submission, the City’s planning officers will review your application to ensure it meets all the relevant planning requirements. If additional information is needed, you will be contacted to provide the necessary details.

3.4. Decision Notification: Once the review is complete, you will receive a notification of the decision. If approved, you may need to meet certain conditions before commencing work.

4. Post-Approval Requirements

After your development application is approved, there are several post-approval requirements you must fulfill before you can begin construction.

4.1. Building Permit: You will need to obtain a Building Permit from the City of Canning before starting any construction work. This permit ensures that your development complies with the Building Code of Australia (BCA) and other relevant standards.

4.2. Compliance with Conditions: If your development approval includes conditions, you must ensure these are met before and during construction. This may include providing additional information, making design changes, or implementing specific management plans.

4.3. Inspections: The City may require inspections at various stages of construction to ensure compliance with the approved plans and conditions. It’s important to schedule these inspections in advance to avoid delays.

4.4. Occupancy Permit: Upon completion of the development, you must obtain an Occupancy Permit before the building can be used or occupied. This permit confirms that the building is safe and suitable for its intended use.

5. Conclusion

Navigating the development application process in the City of Canning can be complex, but by following this checklist, you can ensure that your application is complete and meets all the necessary requirements. Taking the time to prepare your application thoroughly will help avoid delays and increase the likelihood of approval.

Remember, the City’s planning officers are available to assist you at every stage of the process, so don’t hesitate to seek their guidance if you have any questions or concerns.

Whether you're a first-time applicant or an experienced developer, understanding and adhering to this checklist is key to a smooth and successful development process in the City of Canning.