WA Residential Design Codes (R-Codes)
Statutory framework governing residential planning in Western Australia. Understand how density codings (R20, R30, R40, R60) determine building envelopes, boundary setbacks, and exempt development thresholds.
Deemed-to-Comply (No Planning Approval)
If your proposal strictly complies with all quantitative criteria in the R-Codes (setbacks, building height, boundary walls, and open space), development approval from your local council is not required.
Proceed directly to Certified Building Permit (BA1).
Design Principles (Council Assessment)
If a structure exceeds deemed-to-comply numbers (e.g., higher retaining wall or reduced boundary setback), it must be assessed against discretionary Design Principles by the local government planning department.
Requires formal DA with adjoining neighbour consultation.
WA Deemed-to-Comply Benchmarks
Earthworks & Retaining (Clause 5.3.7)
Retaining walls up to 0.5m in height are deemed to comply on or within 1.0m of the boundary. Walls between 0.5m and 1.0m must meet Table 2a setbacks. Walls over 0.5m require building approval.
Boundary Walls (Clause 5.1.3)
In R20/R25 codes, walls built up to a side boundary behind the street setback must not exceed 3.5m average height and 9m maximum length along that boundary.
Outbuildings & Patios (Clause 5.4.3)
Outbuildings under 60m² (or 10% of site area) with max wall height of 2.4m and ridge height of 4.2m are deemed to comply if set back from boundaries under Table 2a.
Visual Privacy (Clause 5.4.1)
Unenclosed outdoor living areas (balconies, decks, verandahs) with finished floor level over 0.5m above natural ground level require minimum 7.5m setback from boundaries or permanent privacy screening.