Public Buildings 

A “public building” does not necessarily refer to a physical building but more so to a place where members of the public usually or occasionally assemble. It incorporates both permanent and temporary structures, as well as indoor and outdoor gatherings. The assembly of persons must be a formal rather than casual gathering and where the intention of the gathering is for the same period or purpose. Environmental Health Officers conduct regular inspections of public buildings within the City.  

 

Where a public building is to be constructed, extended or altered it must be assessed against the requirements of the Health (Public Building) Regulations 1992 and if applicable, a public building is to be approved in conjunction with a planning and building approval. 

The following is a list of the steps involved in obtaining public building approval:  

Step 1: 

• Submit the following:  
• Scaled site plans 
• Form 1 - Application to construct extend or alter a Public Building 

Step 2 

• The City will assess the application together with the submitted plans 
• The applicant will be advised of the application status including whether construction can proceed 

Stage 3 (on completion of constructing, extending or altering a public building): 

• Submit the following: 
• Form 2 - Application for Certificate of Approval must be provided together with the respective application fee  
• Form 5 - Certificate of Electrical Compliance, must also be completed by an licenced electrician where electrical work is involved 
• Submit an inspection request by emailing health@nedlands.wa.gov.au  

Stage 4  

• An Environmental Health Officer will inspect the public building and if compliant provide a Certificate of Approval. If the building is not compliant a re-inspection fee will be applicable and another inspection request will be required to be submitted.  

Once you receive the Certificate of Approval you are free to operate in line with the Public Building Regulations – Link Health (Public Building) Regulations 1992.  

Please refer to the following link for Guidelines on the Application of the Health (Public Building) Regulation 1992. 

Should you wish to make a variation to your Public Building, please complete Form 3 – Application for Variation of Certificate of Approval.  

For more information on temporary public buildings please refer to the Events section of the website.