If you’re planning a new home, renovation, or extension in Perth, one of the first questions you’ll encounter is:
“What drawings do I actually need for council approval?”
The answer depends on your project, but in most WA councils (including City of Stirling, where Balcatta sits), you’ll need a clear, structured set of architectural drawings that demonstrate compliance, safety, and design intent.
This guide breaks down what’s typically required—so you know what to expect.
Why Drawings Matter for Council Approval
Council approval isn’t just a formality—your drawings are assessed for:
- Compliance with zoning and R-Codes
- Building setbacks and site coverage
- Privacy and overlooking
- Overshadowing impacts
- Structural intent and safety
- Energy efficiency requirements
If your drawings are incomplete or unclear, your application could be delayed or rejected.
The Core Drawings You’ll Need
1. Site Plan
A site plan shows how your building sits on the block.
Typically includes:
- Property boundaries and dimensions
- Setbacks from boundaries
- Existing and proposed structures
- Driveways, crossovers, and access points
- Landscaping and outdoor areas
- North point and scale
This is a critical drawing for council assessment.
2. Floor Plans
Floor plans show the internal layout of your home.
Includes:
- Room sizes and labels
- Wall positions and openings
- Doors and windows
- Circulation and flow
Councils use these to judge function and compliance with planning rules.
3. Elevations
Elevations show what your building looks like from outside.
Includes:
- Front, rear, and side views
- Building height and proportions
- Roof pitch and form
- External materials and finishes
Essential for streetscape and height compliance.
4. Sections
Sections cut through the building to reveal internal structure and levels.
Show:
- Floor-to-ceiling heights
- Roof structure
- Ground levels and slopes
- Relationship between spaces
Crucial for sloping sites or complex designs.
5. Shadow Diagrams (Overshadowing)
Shadow diagrams show how your building casts shadows at different times of year.
In Perth, usually required:
- Winter solstice (June 21) shadow studies
- Impact on neighbouring properties
- Compliance with R-Codes overshadowing limits
Additional Drawings You May Need
Depending on your project, you might also require:
-
3D Renderings/Streetscape Perspectives
Helps council visualise the design; often required for modern/unusual builds -
Landscaping Plans
Required for projects where outdoor space or tree retention matters; shows planting, paving, and site treatment -
Energy Efficiency Documentation
Section J reports or JV3 assessments; demonstrates compliance with energy standards -
Engineering Drawings
Structural details for construction; usually required at building permit stage
Planning Approval vs Building Permit
In Perth, there are typically two stages:
1. Planning Approval (Development Approval)
- Focuses on design, layout, and planning compliance
- Uses architectural drawings like those above
2. Building Permit
- Focuses on structural integrity and construction details
- Requires more technical and engineering drawings
Many people confuse these stages, which can slow your project.
Common Mistakes That Delay Approval
- Missing or incomplete drawings
- Incorrect setbacks or zoning assumptions
- No shadow diagrams when required
- Poorly documented elevations or heights
- Lack of coordination between design and compliance
Working with an experienced designer or architect helps avoid these issues.
How a Good Design Team Makes It Easier
A well-prepared drawing set does more than just tick boxes:
- Speeds up approvals
- Reduces back-and-forth with council
- Minimises redesign costs
- Ensures your build is compliant from day one
For Perth projects, local knowledge (R-Codes, council expectations, climate design) is a real advantage.
Need Help With Council Drawings in Perth?
If you’re planning a new home, renovation, or energy-efficient project, getting the drawings right from the start saves time, money, and stress.
Our Balcatta-based team specialises in:
- Architectural drafting and design
- Council approvals and documentation
- Passive and energy-efficient home design
Get in touch to discuss your project and make sure your plans are ready for approval.
