Accommodation (nature-based parks)

Once you have identified the location/site of your business, you will need to confirm the site’s zoning to ensure that it is located within an eligible area.

A Nature-Based Park is capable of being considered in the following zones:

• Tourism (P)
• Environmental Conservation (A)
• Priority Agriculture (A)
• Rural (A)

A Development Application (DA) is required to be lodged with the Shire prior to the operation of a Nature based park.

Please note, that as part of the Development Approval process, the proposal may be publicly advertised and subject to submissions.

Where applicable, the following documents will need to be completed and submitted to the Shire of Harvey:

• Application for Development Approval form
• Copy of Certificate of Title
• Site Plan, which shows the following:

1. Location and purpose of existing buildings on the site in relation to the property boundaries.
2. Location of vehicle access.
3. Location and number of caravan and/or camp sites.
4. Location and details of any facilities for the caravan and/or camp sites.
5. Location and details of any proposed signage.

• Operational Management Plan, which provides details of the following:
  1. How waste is to be managed and disposed of.
  2. How potential offsite impacts will be managed.
  3. Maximum number of caravans and/or persons.
  4. Facilities or services provided (potable water, power, recreation, etc).

Additional documentation may be required based on the nature, scale and location of the development.

• Bushfire Management Plan
• Bushfire Emergency Evacuation Plan
• Transport Impact Statement/Assessment
• Environmental Assessment

Related documents:

 Information Sheet – Hipcamps, Wikicamps etc.

Information Sheet – Tiny Homes

Should any structure be proposed to be constructed on a nature-based park, a building permit is required unless an exemption applies under Schedule 4 Clause 2 of Building Regulations 2012.

If the value of the work exceeds $20,000, the permit must be issued to a registered builder or an approved owner-builder.

Owner-builders must first obtain approval from the Building & Energy WA before applying for a Building Permit from the Shire. For more information, visit the WA government website.

If you require a permit, visit the following link for further information:

Building applications and forms

For more information please contact us.

Nature-based park

To establish and operate a nature-based park in Western Australia, the following health and sanitation requirements must be met to the satisfaction of the local government under the Caravan Parks and Camping Grounds Regulations 1997.

1. Water supply

• Potable (drinking-quality) water must be available to campers.
• The method of supply (communal taps, filling points, etc.) must be approved by the local government.
• All plumbing must comply with relevant Australian Standards where installed.

2. Toilets and ablution facilities
   

If the guests are self-contained and can capture their own waste and grey water, then ablutions are not required. However, a management plan must be provided to demonstrate proper management and to minimise health risks.

Additionally, if you do not require campers to be fully self-contained, you will be required to provide:

• Toilet and handwashing facilities.
• Facilities may be permanent or alternative systems (e.g. composting or vault toilets) if approved.
• Where showers or basins are provided, they must:
• Be hygienic and well maintained
• Have appropriate wastewater disposal
• Provide hot and cold water where applicable
• Facilities must be accessible, safe, and located to minimise health risks

3. Wastewater and sewage disposal 

• All wastewater and sewage must be disposed of via:
  • A reticulated sewer system, or
  • An approved on-site or nearby wastewater treatment or disposal system
• Systems must be designed to prevent contamination of land, surface water, and groundwater.
• If campers use chemical toilets, access to a nearby communal chemical toilet dump point must be provided.

4. Waste management 

• Adequate rubbish facilities must be provided and serviced regularly.

5. Disclosure of amenities

All advertising and guest information must clearly state which amenities are not provided, including:

1. 1. Toilets
   2. Showers
   3. Hand basins
   4. Laundry or washing-up facilities
   5. Hot water
   6. Power or lighting

Prior to commencing operation, an inspection will need to be undertaken to ensure the premises meets the required standards.

When you are ready to commence operations, please contact our Health Team on (08) 9797 4523 or via email to health@harvey.wa.gov.au to arrange for this inspection.

Ongoing routine inspections will be conducted once the business is operational to ensure that suitable standards are maintained.

Once you have all the required approvals, you’re ready to start operating and promoting your business. There are a range of organisations that can support you to manage and grow your business, including:

Small Business Development Corporation

Bunbury Geographe Chamber of Commerce and Industry

South-West Development Commission

Business South West (BSW) Connect

Please contact our Harvey Region team to secure a free listing on the Harvey Region website.