Illegal Occupancy A Worry: Shire

Northam’s regulatory services executive manager Phil Steven said occupying temporary dwellings outside accepted and allowed timeframes was not an option.

He said people could be granted approval to live on a building site in a caravan for up to three months or in a shed for 12 months, as long as house plans had been approved by the Shire and the house would be ready in 12 months.

The Shire called for people to dob in such activity about eight months ago and expected a host of reports, but received only 10.

Neighbours identified the two temporary dwellings that had been used for more than five years.

“One was working away and travelled a lot, and only lived there for a few months at a time,” Mr Steven said.

“One came from the metro area and with housing expensive in Perth, it was the only thing they could afford.

“They decked out a shed but unless it is approved as a house with smoke detectors, RCD switches and insulation, it is not suitable.”

Mr Steven said all the reported dwellings were on the fringes of town and now had temporary approval.

“The perception is that there were quite a few the Shire weren’t aware of but we had hardly any response,” he said.

“We had 10 approvals given, with none knocked back.

“Provided they are doing the things we ask for, we won’t knock them back.”

Still, illegal dwelling was an ongoing problem within the Shire, he said.

“We are that distance from Perth where people want a more relaxed lifestyle and not necessarily modern facilities,” Mr Steven said. “We want people to build quality houses and we should look just as nice as any metro area.”

Temporary accommodation forms are available from the Shire. There is no cost to apply.

Source: Avon Valley Gazette