Understanding Council Approval Timelines
A Practical Guide from Professional Experience
Council approvals are one of the most important stages in any residential or development project. After working with multiple councils across Perth, one truth is consistent. Timing determines how smoothly your project moves forward. When approvals are prepared early and submitted with complete, compliant documentation, the process is efficient. When left too late, delays become unavoidable especially toward the end of the year.
Development Approval (DA 4 to 12 Weeks)
A Development Approval is needed when a proposal impacts planning considerations such as setbacks, privacy, streetscape or overshadowing. Straightforward projects are typically assessed within four to six weeks. Applications involving variations or additional planning justification often take eight to twelve weeks. If neighbour consultation or external referrals are required, the timeframe extends further. Clear drawings and strong reasoning significantly reduce assessment time.
Building Permit (BA 2 to 6 Weeks)
Once planning is approved, the Building Permit reviews construction compliance. Private building surveyors generally complete assessments within two to four weeks. Local council processing usually takes four to six weeks. Coordinated documentation including architectural drawings, structural engineering, energy reports and specifications prevents delays and reduces requests for revisions.
Why Timing Matters Most in November and December
Every year the industry experiences a predictable slowdown from November through January. Councils, engineers, surveyors and consultants face heavy workloads leading up to Christmas. Staff availability drops, processing times increase and many applications carry over into the new year. Submitting approvals in November or December makes it very unlikely that your project will progress before the holiday break.
To confidently finish approvals before the holiday season:
Begin design and documentation in August or September
Lodge Development Approval by early September for complex projects
Submit Building Permit by October
This timeline provides enough buffer for council queries, engineering updates and compliance adjustments. Projects that follow this schedule consistently receive approvals before Christmas without unexpected hold-ups.
How We Help Fast-Track Your Approval Pathway
At Tay Bui Arch Studio, we prepare all documentation to a high standard from the outset ensuring your application is clear, compliant and council-ready. Our experience with different local authorities allows us to anticipate issues early and guide your project through the most efficient approval pathway.
If you need quicker approvals or want to avoid end-of-year delays, we can assess your project and recommend the fastest approach.
Need a smooth, timely approval? Ask us. We can help you lodge correctly the first time.
