FAQs

The draft policy aims to improve clarity of approval requirements and development standards for establishing new caravan parks and camping grounds. This has been prepared to reflect changes in this industry, including trends towards the establishment of small-scale caravan parks on rural properties.

Yes, you need Shire approval if you want to have visiting campers or caravans pay to stay at your property.

To establish a caravan park or camping ground the following approvals are required:

• Planning approval for a ‘Caravan Park’ land use (and any associated development) under Town Planning Scheme No. 3 – a discretionary land use in the Rural and Tourist zones.
• Granting of a licence to operate a Caravan Park (of an appropriate class) under the Caravan Parks and Camping Grounds Regulations 1997.
• Issuance of building certification and a building permit for any associated buildings and structures under the Building Act 2011.

Yes. All caravan parks and camping grounds are also required to be granted a licence to operate under the Caravan Parks and Camping Grounds Regulations 1997. To be granted a licence you will need to provide services and operate in accordance with the Regulations, depending on the type and size of park that is proposed.

You can find more information on the website of the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries.

If a caravan park or camping ground is proposed in a location designated as 'bushfire prone' by the Department of Fire & Emergency Services, your proposal will need to meet the requirements of State Planning Policy 3.7 and the Guidelines for Planning in Bushfire Prone Areas.

We recommend seeking advice from an accredited bushfire consultant before starting your application.

Everybody needs good neighbours   

We encourage everyone to talk to their neighbours as early and as much as possible when making development decisions. Conversation helps to build relationships and to share information.

When we receive an application for a caravan park or camping ground we will invite comment from neighbours, providing the opportunity for relevant issues to be raised.

The draft policy includes a number of provisions designed to safeguard neighbours and land uses on adjoining properties.

Family and friends can camp on your property without needing Shire approval if they:

• Use one (1) caravan only
• Stay no more than 3 nights in any 28 consecutive days
• Do not cause any nuisance or disturbance

Please make a request in writing if you would like family and friends to stay with more than one caravan or for longer than 3 nights.