FAQs

A development application (also referred to as a planning application) is a formal request for consent to carry out proposed development in the City of Cockburn. 

This can include construction of a house, shed, undertaking a home occupation or business and includes the use of an existing building. Planning approval is required to ensure that development being undertaken within the City of Cockburn complies with the relevant planning requirements and legislation. 

This includes the City's Town Planning Scheme No. 3, Residential Design Codes, Local Planning Policies and other statutory documents.

The City of Cockburn has identified that works typically expected by the community at parks and reserves, such as tree planting, benches, and paths, are experiencing unnecessary delays due to needing to undergo the development application process. 

The City is proposing a new policy (Local Planning Policy 5.20 - Development on Local Reserves) to improve delivery time-frames of these amenities. 

The policy sets out criteria that will exempt certain works at parks and reserves from needing to undergo the development application process. 

The City will be able to deliver amenities and undertake works in local parks and reserves more quickly, in instances where the development complies with the policy.

Infrastructure and amenities at local parks and reserves are often planned well in advance. They are often identified in our long term plans and strategies, such as:

• Community, Sport and Recreation Facilities Plan
• Western Suburbs Sporting Precinct Study
• Park Master Plans

These long-term plans and strategies are developed in consultation with the community. 

Budget for the delivery of individual items needs to be acquired and approved each financial year. 

The development application process is usually the last step in the process.