Searching for how to lodge an Airbnb application? In Western Australia there are usually two separate steps: state short-term accommodation registration, and — for many unhosted properties — a council development application (DA). This guide covers the council application process, what documents you need, how long it takes, and how registration fits in.
Last verified 6 September 2026
People searching for an “Airbnb application” are often looking for one of two things — and they are not the same process:
If you only need to register, use our STRA register guide. If you need (or may need) council approval, keep reading — that is the Airbnb application process most owners mean when they ask about “applying”.
Hosted short-term rental (you live on the property during guest stays) is generally exempt from development approval across Western Australia. You still must register on the state register.
Unhosted properties in the Perth metropolitan area need a development application if you rent for more than 90 nights per year. Under 90 nights, state registration alone is usually enough for planning purposes — but platforms still need your registration number.
Some regional councils require approval regardless of night count. Busselton and Augusta-Margaret River are well-known examples. Always check your council page before you assume the 90-night rule applies.
Completing the short-term accommodation register is not the same as getting council approval. If your property needs a DA and you do not have one, your registration can be at risk — and platforms must remove non-compliant listings.
Rules differ by local government. Use our council directory or send your address via get started and we confirm whether a DA applies, and what that council expects in a management plan.
If you have not already, complete state registration ($250). You can often declare that council approval is in progress or not yet obtained — then update the register when your DA is granted. How to register →
Typically: DA form signed by owners, site/floor plans, management plan (guest numbers, noise, parking, complaints, house rules), and any council-specific extras. Urban Approval Group prepares the management plan and pack for your council as part of our $500 fee.
Applications are lodged with your local government (online, in person, or by post — depends on the council). Council fees are separate from our service fee and vary by council.
Many unhosted STRA applications are advertised to neighbours. The standard Western Australia planning timeframe is about 60 days for a properly made application; advertising adds time. Respond promptly to any request for information.
When approval is granted, enter your DA number on the STRA register so your registration shows compliant status. Keep operating within any conditions on the approval.
Exact checklists vary, but most Western Australia councils ask for some combination of:
The management plan is where most DIY applications stall. Councils expect clear operational detail — not a one-page house-rules printout. See our FAQ on management plans or start an application with us and we draft it to your council’s format.
Council assessment: Standard Western Australia planning timeframe is 60 days from lodgement of a properly made application. Neighbour advertising (often 14–21 days) extends the overall journey. Objected or incomplete applications take longer.
Council fees: Paid direct to council — commonly a few hundred dollars depending on the fee schedule (for example Busselton publishes STRA-related fees separately from metropolitan councils).
Our fee: $500 flat to confirm requirements, prepare your management plan, and lodge the development application on your behalf. State registration ($250) and council fees are separate government charges.
Ready to apply
Tell us your address. We confirm whether a council DA is required, draft the management plan, and lodge the application — so you are not guessing your way through each council’s process.
This guide summarises published Western Australia planning and STRA guidance. Council rules and fees change — always confirm with your local government before lodging. Last verified 6 September 2026. Related: short-term accommodation register, STRA reforms, Perth Airbnb rules.
Urban Approval Group