Thinking about removing part of your home, an old extension or a commercial fit-out in Perth? Before any wall comes down, you need to know which approvals apply. This guide explains how demolition permits work in WA, when partial demolition is covered by your building permit instead, what the fees are, and how heritage rules can change the picture.
What is partial demolition?
Partial demolition, also called selective demolition, removes specific parts of a building and leaves the rest standing. Common examples are removing a rear extension, taking out internal walls to open up a living area, removing a carport or patio, or stripping out a shop before a new fit-out. Our guide to partial and internal demolition in Perth covers the practical side.
Do you need a permit for partial demolition in Perth?
Usually, yes. Under section 10 of the WA Building Act 2011, demolition work needs a demolition permit, with some exceptions. The main exception that matters for partial demolition is this: if the demolition is part of a renovation, alteration or extension, and a building permit is in effect for that building work, you do not need a separate demolition permit for it.
So in practice:
- Removing part of a building with no new building work planned (for example, demolishing an old extension or a carport and leaving the area clear): you will usually need a demolition permit.
- Removing walls or sections as part of a renovation or extension that has a building permit: the demolition is usually covered by that building permit.
- Minor internal work that is not structural: may not need a permit at all, but check before you start. Removing a load-bearing wall is structural and needs engineering advice.
Your local government is the permit authority, and rules on exemptions can be detailed, so we confirm the approval pathway for every job before work starts.
How much does a demolition permit cost in WA?
The fees are set by the State Government (Building and Energy):
- Class 1 or Class 10 building (a house, shed, garage or similar): $121 application fee
- Class 2 to Class 9 building (apartments, shops, offices, warehouses and other commercial buildings): $121 for each storey
- Building Services Levy: $61.65 if the work is valued at $45,000 or less, or 0.137% of the total value of the work if it is valued at more than $45,000
The permit fee is only a small part of the overall project. For the full picture, read how much residential demolition costs in Perth.
Do you need planning (development) approval to demolish?
In most cases demolishing a single house, an outbuilding, a patio, a carport, a pool or a fence in WA does not need development approval, as long as the property is not a heritage-protected place. Other buildings are also generally exempt if they do not share a common wall with another building and are not heritage-protected. These exemptions are in Schedule 2, clause 61, of the Planning and Development (Local Planning Schemes) Regulations 2015.
If your property is heritage-listed or sits in a heritage area, demolition can need development approval, and some councils add their own local planning policies. Check your council’s heritage list early, because heritage approval can take time.
What is needed for the permit application?
A demolition permit application (form BA5) is lodged with your local government. Typically it needs:
- Site plans showing what is being demolished
- The owner’s details and consent
- Details of the demolition contractor and how the work will be done safely
- Evidence that the Building Services Levy has been paid
- How neighbouring property, footpaths and verges will be protected
We prepare and lodge the paperwork for our clients as part of the job.
Is partial demolition the same as an interior strip-out?
An interior strip-out is one type of partial demolition. It removes the inside of a building, such as ceilings, partitions, flooring, joinery and fixtures, and leaves the structure standing. Strip-outs are common at the end of a commercial lease or before a new fit-out. Read more in our guide to commercial demolition and strip-outs in Perth.
Asbestos checks come first
Any building constructed before 31 December 2003 may contain asbestos. It must be identified before demolition, and licensed removal is required for friable asbestos and for more than 10 square metres of bonded asbestos at a workplace (WorkSafe WA). See our asbestos and demolition guide.
The partial demolition process
- Site assessment and scope. We inspect the building, confirm exactly what is coming out, and check for asbestos and services.
- Approvals. We confirm whether a demolition permit is needed or the work is covered by your building permit, and lodge the paperwork.
- Isolation and protection. Services to the work area are isolated, and the parts of the building that stay are protected from dust and damage.
- Selective demolition. We remove the agreed sections with the right equipment for the job, from hand tools to excavators.
- Waste and clean-up. Materials are sorted for recycling, waste is removed and the area is left clean for your builder.
Talk to Full Spectrum Demolition
We handle partial demolition, internal strip-outs and full house demolition across Perth, including the permit paperwork. See our residential demolition services or request a free quote.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a demolition permit if I already have a building permit?
Usually not for the demolition that is part of that work. Under section 10 of the Building Act 2011, demolition that is incidental to a renovation, alteration or extension does not need a separate demolition permit when a building permit is in effect for the building work.
Do I need a permit to remove an internal wall?
If the wall is load-bearing, the work is structural and needs engineering advice and the right approvals. Non-structural internal work may not need a demolition permit, but check with your local government or with us before you start.
How long does a demolition permit take in Perth?
It depends on the council and on how complete the application is. Lodging a complete application early is the best way to avoid delays.
Can I demolish a heritage-listed home in Perth?
Demolition of a heritage-protected place usually needs development approval from your council, and approval is not guaranteed. Speak to your council’s heritage team before making plans.