The A to Z of Subdivision

Every subdivision presents different circumstances and rewards.

That’s why it pays to have an expert partner like Stratawise on board – it doesn’t matter what challenging new situation you find yourself in, we’ve probably faced it before.

Subdividing land in WA falls under Western Australia Planning Commission (WAPC). WAPC primary concerns are with the Town Planning and Development Act 1928, and to ensure that all subdivisions are consistent with State planning framework and relevant policy and plans.

Remember, it all takes time.

The WA Planning Commission and the local Shire may take what seems like a long time to issue approvals, but if you factor these approval times in you’ll be less stressed.

There are a number steps involved in developing your subdividable block, and the earlier you get Stratawise involved, the more we can help.

Below are the major steps involved.

1. Site contour survey – one of the first team members you’ll need to recruit is a qualified land surveyor who can carry out this work. If you like, Stratawise can organise this work
2. Propose plan of subdivision – the simple act of dividing one block into two, three or more, by allocating size and position to each. You’ll need to have these plans professionally presented, and Stratawise can help with this.
3. Submit proposed plan to WAPC, including the site survey and house plans.
4. Received conditional approval from WAPC – conditions may be imposed by authorities such as Western Power, the Water Authority, Telstra and even the Swan River Authority – but there’s usually no need to worry, as long as you agree to comply.
5. Prepare Development Application to local government.
6. Sign agreement and pay contribution for service head-works – gas, power, water and sewerage.
7. Clear block from vegetation, rubbish and tree stumps, and/or arrange demolition of existing structures.
8. Instruct surveyor to re-peg site.
9. Install new sewer junction to new block re-align existing sewer to retained house.
10. Install water, electricity and gas services to new block.
11. If building on new block proceed with the following: a. Install access track or proposed driveway (speak to builder) b. Install retaining walls (speak to builder) c. Establish sand pad level (builder to do)
12. Build 2 car garage or carport if existing building is being retained.
13. Build 4m2 store room to existing building.
14. Fence new block.
15. Clearances for Western Power, WAWA and Local Government to be sent to surveyor.
16. Surveyor submits final submission to WAPC.
17. Surveyor to lodge approved plan to Landgate.
18. Apply for titles – you will need titles if you are selling, because you can’t settle until you have them.