When you need a demolition permit
In WA, pulling down a building usually needs a demolition permit from your council, applied for on form BA5. There's a state exemption for small backyard structures:
- a patio, shed or pool of 40 m² or less doesn't need a demolition permit
- as long as it has no asbestos
- and the property isn't heritage-listed
Anything bigger, anything with asbestos, and any house needs a BA5.
What it costs
| Charge | Amount |
|---|---|
| BA5 for a house or Class 10 structure (shed, garage, carport, patio) | $121 |
| BA5 for other buildings (Class 2 to 9) | $121 per storey |
| Building Services Levy | Payable on demolition permits too: $61.65 for work up to $45,000, or 0.137% of the value above that |
| Extending the permit (BA22) | $121 |
These fees are set by the state, so they're the same at every council.
Demolition and planning approval
A demolition permit is a building approval. If the property is heritage-listed or in a heritage area, check with your council's planning team first, as the exemption doesn't apply and other approvals may be needed.
Removing a structure that was never approved
If you're pulling down a shed or patio that never had a permit, demolishing it is one way to fix the problem. The same 40 m² exemption applies. If you'd rather keep it, see retrospective approval.