Learn about planning approval requirements for variations to a building envelope. 

Definition

A building envelope is an area within a lot that contains all buildings and effluent disposal facilities for the lot.

A building envelope is often applied to Rural Residential lots (and in some cases, to lots in other zones) for numerous reasons. These include protection of native vegetation, minimising the impact of development on waterways, retaining the natural contours of the site, managing bushfires, and protecting the rural amenity of the land.

Find your building envelope

Building envelopes are typically shown on an approved Structure Plan, Outline Development Plan or Subdivision Guide Plan. Alternatively, a building envelope may be shown on your property’s historical planning approvals or building permits held by the Shire. Visit the Western Australian Planning Commission to view the Shire of Augusta Margaret River Structure Plans or please contact the Planning Team on the details provided below to find out if there is a predetermined building envelope on your property.  

Some Rural Residential subdivisions in the Shire do not have predetermined building envelopes. In this case you may nominate a building envelope that complies with clause 4.22.2 (e) of Local Planning Scheme No.1 requirements. The default building envelope is an area of 2000m² which is located in accordance with the specified setbacks that apply to your site.  

Is planning approval required?

Yes, planning approval is required. Any new development proposed outside the approved or default building envelope requires planning approval for a building envelope variation. 

Building permit and health approvals

Depending on the proposed development, you may require a building permit and/or approval from the Shire’s Environmental Health Team. Note that Planning Approval is required prior to applying for a Building Permit. 

Share this page

Back to Top of the page