Demolition

Find out about demolition works, including how to apply for a Demolition Permit and environmental health requirements.

When is a Demolition Permit required?

A Demolition Permit is required to demolish the whole or part of a building or structure as per the Building Act 2011.

Demolition work that does not require approval

A Demolition Permit is not required to demolish a non-habitable building or structure such as a patio, pergola, shed or similar, where all of the following apply:

  • The footprint of the building or structure is not greater than 40m2
  • The demolition of the building or structure will not affect the health or safety of the users of the building or structure
  • The building or structure is not heritage listed.
How to apply for a Demolition Permit

To apply for a Demolition Permit, the following information will need to be submitted to the City for assessment:

  • A completed Application for Demolition Permit: Form BA5 (Please note that all registered land owners must sign this form)
  • A site plan at a scale of 1:200 clearly identifying the buildings or structures to be demolished
  • Confirmation that the gas and electricity service providers have been notified of the proposed demolition works
  • Confirmation of the demolition contractors valid registration issued by Worksafe WA, for the removal of asbestos, if applicable (Please visit the Department of Commerce for registration requirements).  If no asbestos is present, then a statutory declaration must be provided to this effect
  • Confirmation that the property has been treated to ensure that the building or structure does not contain rats.
  • A completed Demolition Permit Checklist

The relevant fees will also need to be paid upon lodgement.  Please see the City's Building Services Fee Schedulefor an up-to-date fee structure.

Environmental health requirements

Septic tank removal

The City requires all septic tanks and leach drains be decommissioned and removed prior to any demolition work. 

Decommissioning involves the pumping out or emptying septic tanks and leach drains and the removing them from the site.

Once the system has been emptied, the applicant must submit a Controlled Waste Tracking Form to the City’s Environmental Health Department.

Asbestos removal

If a building or structure contains asbestos materials, the Health (Asbestos) Regulations 1992,  requires 'reasonable' measures to be taken to prevent asbestos fibres entering the atmosphere.

Any business contracted to remove more than 10m2 of asbestos is required to hold an Asbestos Removal Licence (issued by Worksafe WA).

Go to Top of the page