Can I obtain temporary approval to operate my business?

Temporary works or a use which are in existence for less than 48 hours, or a longer period agreed by the local government, in any 12 month period do not need development approval.

At the Ordinary Meeting of Council held on 23 July 2019, the Council endorsed the position that development approval would not be required for change of use applications for ‘P’ ‘D’ or ‘A’ land use as prescribed under Table 1 of the City’s Local Planning Scheme No. 2 within in the Mount Lawley/Highgate Town Centre area where the use is in existence for less than 12 months. The development cannot contain any external works (i.e. amendments to the building façade, increase in floor area, etc.).

The Council Meeting agenda and minutes are available here. 

Should I notify Vincent prior to occupation?

If you intend to operate a business on a temporary basis within the Mt Lawley/Highgate Town Centre area, please contact the City in writing confirming the following details:

• tenancy location
• proposed land use (Refer to Table 1 of the City's Local Planning Scheme No. 2)
• intended date to commence operation

Please note the approval is valid for a 12 month period only from the date of occupation. A Development Application will be required to continue after this period. 

What if I want to operate my business for longer than a 12-month period?

If you would like to continue operating beyond the 12 month temporary approval period, you may be required to obtain development approval. 

If a development application is required, it is recommended you lodge your application with the City at least three months prior to the end of your temporary approval date. Failure to obtain development approval prior to the end of the temporary approval period may attract compliance action. 

To confirm if development approval is required, please contact the City's Duty Planning Officer on 9273 6000 or email mail@vincent.wa.gov.au. 

For further information on Change of Use development applications, please see the further information below. 

Do I need to obtain any other approvals from Vincent prior to occupation?

A Building Permit and/or Health Approval may be required prior to occupation or commence of use of the tenancy.

Please contact the City on 9273 6000 or email mail@vincent.wa.gov.au to confirm which other approvals may be required.