What’s the Difference Between Developer Guidelines and Council Approvals?
When you’re building a new home, especially in a new estate, you’ll come across a range of rules and regulations. Two terms you’ll often hear are “developer guidelines” and “council approvals”. While they might sound similar, they’re quite different, and both play an important role in how your home can be designed and built.
What Are Developer Guidelines?
Developer guidelines (also known as estate design guidelines or building covenants) are rules set by the land developer. Their purpose is to maintain a consistent look and feel across the estate, and protect the overall value and amenity of the community. They usually apply when you’re building in a new land estate, like those in Baldivis, Alkimos, Ellenbrook or Byford.
Developer guidelines may include rules around:
- Home design style or façade requirements
- Roof pitch and materials
- Setbacks and garage placement
- Driveway materials and colours
- Fencing height, style and location
- Landscaping and verge treatments
- Solar panel or aircon unit placement (not visible from the street)
What Are Council Approvals?
Council approvals are legal requirements set by your local government (council) under the WA Planning Scheme and Building Code of Australia. These ensure your build meets zoning, safety, and planning regulations. Council approvals are mandatory and apply to all builds, not just those in new estates.
Council approval typically covers:
- Building height, setbacks, and boundary clearances
- Site coverage and open space requirements
- Structural safety and engineering compliance
- Stormwater drainage plans
- Bushfire (BAL) ratings or flood zones
- Retaining walls and cut/fill details
- Energy efficiency and sustainability ratings
Ready to Build Without the Headaches?
Let us help you with the tricky bits. Contact the team at Aveling Homes today for expert guidance on building in your chosen estate and making sure everything gets approved smoothly and hassle-free.