Find out about approval requirements for business and advertising signs located on private property and how to apply.
Definition
A sign on private land is any message, direction or representation displayed on a building or private property. This includes painted signs, fixed structures, illuminated or electronic displays and temporary promotional signage.
Types of private-land signage
Common types of private-land signage include:
Wall signs;
Banner signs;
Projecting signs;
Portable signs (including a-frame signs);
Veranda signs;
Pylon signs;
Roof signs;
Entry statement signs (estate signs);
Inflatable signs;
Display home signs; and
Window signs.
Purpose of signage regulations
Signage regulations help ensure that:
Signs are appropriate for their surroundings;
The visual character and amenity of an area is maintained;
Signs are not misleading or dangerous to vehicular or pedestrian traffic;
Clutter is minimised; and
Structural and public safety requirements are met.
The City aims to balance the advertising needs of businesses with community expectations for a safe and attractive environment.
General guidelines for signs on private property
All signs on private land must:
Not contain offensive material deemed to be violent, insulting, obscene or defamatory to the general public, as determined by the City;
Not be fixed to boundary fences or walls;
Not extend beyond the boundary of the lot;
Relate to the site on which they are located; and
Be integrated with the building design where possible.
Requirements and exemptions
Depending on the design, size and placement of the sign, you may need:
Development (Planning) Approval is required in the following circumstances:
- Where signage does not comply with Local Planning Policy 4.6 Signage;
- Where signage contains any illumination, radio, animation, movement or reflective, retro-reflective or fluorescent materials as part of its design or structure.
- Digital signage (unless it falls under the exemptions listed within Local Planning Policy 4.6 Signage);
- Signs that require a signage strategy;
- Signs that do not satisfy the exemptions listed under the City’s Local Planning Scheme; and
- Signage located in a heritage protected place.
A Sign Licence confirms the sign is structurally sound and fixed correctly. Most fixed, freestanding or structurally supported signs require a licence.
How to apply
If your sign requires Development (Planning) Approval, you will need to lodge an application with supporting documents.
Supporting documentation required:
Standard signage
- Site plan showing the location of the existing or proposed sign(s), access points, car parking areas, landscaping and the location of the proposed signage in relation to these elements. The site plan must show the setback of the sign(s) from the street, side and rear boundaries. Minimum scale: 1:200.
- Elevations of the sign(s) and/or the façade(s) of the building to which the sign will be affixed. The elevations must show the total height and width of the sign(s), the height of any supporting structures, and all proposed graphics or wording. Minimum scale: 1:100 or 1:200.
Digital signage
- The above;
- An artist or computer generated impression to scale showing the proposed development and its relationship with the surroundings;
- Information on the operation of the sign (e.g. dwell time, set on a timer, static/cinematic, luminance levels) and a maintenance schedule (as applicable);
- Visual impact assessment (where required); and
- Complaints management procedure addressing complaints relating to luminance levels and contents displayed.
Signage strategy
A signage strategy is an overall plan for a development site or structure plan area and should be submitted with an application for Development (Planning) Approval when:
- The signage relates to a subdivision or development estate which proposes more than ten lots;
- The signage relates to a display home centre; or
- The number of signs for a development site (existing and proposed) exceeds a total of four.
A signage strategy should incorporate the location, type, size and design of all existing and proposed signs, depicted on site and elevation plans. Justification should be provided on the need for the number and design of signs proposed.
To apply, choose your preferred method below and remember to submit your supporting documents along with the application form:
- Option 1 – Apply online (preferred): Apply through the online lodgement portal.
- Option 2 – In person: Download and complete the Application for Development (Planning) Approval PDF form below, then submit it with all supporting documentation at the City of Wanneroo Civic Centre, 23 Dundebar Road, Wanneroo. Business hours are Monday-Friday, 8.30am-5pm.
- Option 3 – By post: Download and complete the Application for Development (Planning) Approval PDF form below, then mail it with all supporting documentation to City of Wanneroo, Locked Bag 1, Wanneroo WA 6946.
Fees
Planning assessment timeframes
- Up to 60 days for most applications.
- Up to 90 days if consultation with the public or other public authority is required.
The assessment period commences once the City has received and accepted a complete application, including all required plans, supporting information and application fees.
Development (Planning) Approval, where required, must be issued before a Building Permit can be obtained.
Documents to prepare
For detailed information, including the application process, timeframe, and fees, refer to Building Permit page.
A sign licence is required for most fixed or structurally supported signs, including pylon signs, projecting signs, roof signs and illuminated signs.
Required supporting documents:
Three copies of plans drawn to a scale of not less than 1:50 showing the size, position, design and inscription, and the method of construction and fixing
Detailed structural drawings.
How to submit your application
You can submit your sign licence application:
- Option 1 – Apply online (preferred): Apply through the online lodgement portal.
- Option 2 – In person: With the completed Sign Licence Application Form (see below) all supporting documentation at the City of Wanneroo Civic Centre, 23 Dundebar Road, Wanneroo. Business hours are Monday-Friday, 8.30am-5pm.
- Option 3 – By mail: With the completed Sign Licence Application Form (see below) and all supporting documentation to City of Wanneroo, Locked Bag 1, Wanneroo WA 6946.
Fees
Timeframes
- Certified applications: within 10 business days
- Uncertified applications: within 25 business days
If further information is required, you will be contacted. The requested information must be provided within 21 days or within an agreed timeframe.
