Solar panels

A building permit is required for the installation of any solar panels under the Building Act 2011 as the City of Karratha is located withing a Region D wind zone. 

While they may be exempt from needing a Building Permit in other parts of Western Australia, the City’s wind zone classification means a Building Permit is required. 

Generally, the application should be submitted by the contractor undertaking the works. The contractor signs the application as the nominated builder and takes responsibility for the works. 

Please submit along with your application:  

• roof layout plan – detailing the number of panels and the proposed location of them in relation to the edges of the roof 
• site plan, for on ground arrays – detailing the location within a land parcel and providing setbacks to any other buildings on the site 
• technical data sheet and engineering certification for the proposed panels 
• installation information and engineering certification for the proposed racking/fixing system. 

Approval is also required from Horizon Power, along with your Building Permit from the City, before any work is undertaken. 

It’s not essential you use a registered builder, but all installations must be undertaken by a licenced electrician. 

Planning approval will generally only be required for on ground installations.