FAQs

In June 2025 the Minister for Planning announced a major review of the R-Codes to simplify the planning framework and reduce unnecessary complexity. In July 2026 the State Government advised that the revised R-codes are anticipated to come into effect in during 2027.

The draft policy has been developed as an interim measure to deliver meaningful improvements to the City's current planning framework while State reforms are being finalised.  The draft policy has been prepared to complement the intent of the State's proposed reforms by reducing unnecessary regulation and improving planning outcomes for residents in the meantime.

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The intent of the policy is to assist in improving customer experience in regard to cost and paperwork for applicants by establishing standards which has minimal planning impact. This will also allow planning resources to focus on more complex or higher-impact proposals, while making the system simpler and more efficient for straightforward projects.

A copy of the R-Codes can be downloaded here

In accordance with Clause 3.0 of the Residential Design Codes (R-Codes), local governments may adopt local planning policies which amend, replace and/or augment a deemed-to-comply requirement of the R-Codes Volume 1, with the clause outlining the provisions which may be modified without WAPC approval. Where a provision (clause) is not listed, the City are required to submit the proposal to the WAPC for their consent. 

The R-Codes will still apply overall, with only the modified clauses changing. The changes should be read in conjunction with the R-Codes.

The City will consider all submissions, and Council will make a final decision on the policy at a future meeting. If Council endorses the revised policy, a submission will be lodged with the Western Australia Planning Commission for approval.