FAQs

Whether you need approval to run a business from home depends on the type and size of your business and the zoning of your property.

Please take a look at our Home Business information brochure before contacting the Shire's planning team for advice.

No. The types of home-based businesses that are allowed is defined in Town Planning Scheme No. 3 which is not changing at this time.

The policy provides guidance for how and when these businesses are appropriate - for example, a home-based business that has regular customer traffic may be acceptable at a property with access from South Coast Highway, but not acceptable in a cul-de-sac street.

This aims to provide landowners with certainty, neighbours with safeguards, and clear and equitable standards when applications are made.

Key changes proposed are:

• Incorporating all potential commercial land uses that may be approved in the residential areas, not just 'tourism' related land uses.
• Improving clarity on how car parking and traffic matters will be addressed.
• Providing guidance for how the size and scale of home-based businesses will be assessed.

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.

In most cases the Shire will notify adjoining landowners if we have received an application for a commercial business in a residential area. This will depend on the requirements of the Town Planning Scheme as well as the type and size of the commercial land use proposed.

The proposed policy aims to reduce the likelihood of large-scale commercial businesses being established in inappropriate locations, while supporting small-scale and incidental businesses that are compatible with residential areas.

The Shire encourages large-scale commercial businesses to be located on larger roads and in close proximity to the Denmark town centre.