BUSH FIRES ACT 1954
LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 1995
BUSH FIRE BRIGADES
LOCAL LAW 2017
LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 1995
DIVIDING FENCES ACT 1961
FENCING LOCAL LAW 2017
15 February 2017 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, WA 1329
BUSH FIRES ACT 1954
LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 1995
SHIRE OF WYNDHAM EAST KIMBERLEY
BUSH FIRE BRIGADES LOCAL LAW 2017
Table of Contents
PART 1—PRELIMINARY
1.1 Citation
1.2 Commencement
1.3 Definitions
1.4 Repeal
1.5 Application
PART 2—ESTABLISHMENT OF BUSH FIRE BRIGADES
2.1 Establishment of a bush fire brigade
2.2 Name and officers of bush fire brigade
2.3 Ranks within the bush fire brigade
2.4 Rules
2.5 Existing Bush Fire Brigades
2.6 Dissolution of bush fire brigade
2.7 New arrangement after dissolution
PART 3—ORGANISATION AND MAINTENANCE OF BUSH FIRE BRIGADES
3.1 Local government responsible for structure
3.2 Officers to be supplied with Act
3.3 Managerial role of Chief Bush Fire Control Officer
3.4 Chief Bush Fire Control Officer may attend meetings
3.5 Duties of Chief Bush Fire Control Officer
3.6 Holding of annual general meeting
3.7 Nomination of bush fire control officers to Bush Fire Advisory Committee
3.8 Nomination of bush fire control officer to the local government
3.9 Minutes to be tabled before the Bush Fire Advisory Committee
3.10 Functions of Advisory Committee
3.11 Advisory Committee to nominate bush fire control officers
3.12 Local government to have regard to nominees
3.13 Advisory Committee to consider bush fire brigade motions
PART 4—TYPES OF BUSH FIRE BRIGADE MEMBERSHIP
4.1 Types of membership of bush fire brigade
4.2 Fire fighting members
4.3 Associate members
4.4 Cadet members
4.5 Honorary life member
4.6 Notification of membership
PART 5—APPOINTMENT, DISMISSAL AND MANAGEMENT OF MEMBERS
5.1 Rules to govern
PART 6—EQUIPMENT OF BUSH FIRE BRIGADES
6.1 Policies of local government
6.2 Equipment in brigade area
6.3 Funding from local government budget
6.4 Consideration in the local government budget
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SCHEDULE 1—RULES GOVERNING THE OPERATION OF BUSH FIRE BRIGADES
PART 1—PRELIMINARY
PART 2—OBJECTS AND MEMBERSHIP OF BUSH FIRE BRIGADE
PART 3—FUNCTIONS OF BRIGADE OFFICERS
PART 4—COMMITTEE
PART 5—MEETINGS OF BUSH FIRE BRIGADE
PART 6—MEETINGS OF COMMITTEE
PART 7—GENERAL ADMINISTRATION MATTERS
PART 8—NOTICES AND PROXIES
APPENDIX I
APPENDIX II
APPENDIX III
15 February 2017 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, WA 1331
BUSH FIRES ACT 1954
LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 1995
SHIRE OF WYNDHAM EAST KIMBERLEY
BUSH FIRE BRIGADES LOCAL LAW 2017
Under the powers conferred by the Bush Fires Act 1954 and the Local Government Act 1995 and
under all other powers enabling it, the Council of the Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley resolved on
31 January 2017 to make the following local law.
PART 1—PRELIMINARY
1.1 Citation
This local law may be cited as the Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley Bush Fire Brigades Local Law
2017.
1.2 Commencement
This local law comes into operation 14 days after the date of its publication in the Government
Gazette.
1.3 Definitions
(1) In this local law unless the context otherwise requires—
Act means the Bush Fires Act 1954;
brigade area is defined in clause 2.2(1)(b);
brigade member means a fire fighting member, associate member or a cadet member of a bush
fire brigade;
brigade officer means a person holding a position referred to in clause 2.2(1)(c), whether or not
he or she was appointed by the local government or elected at an annual general meeting of a
bush fire brigade or otherwise appointed to the position;
Bush Fire Advisory Committee is appointed by the local government for the purposes noted in
section 67 of the Act;
bush fire brigade is defined in section 7 of the Act;
bush fire control officer means a person appointed to that office by the local government;
cadet member is defined at 4.4 of this local law;
Chief Bush Fire Control Officer means the Chief Bush Fire Control Officer appointed by the
local government;
Council means the Council of the local government;
Department means the Department of Fire and Emergency Services of Western Australia;
district means the district of the local government;
fire fighting member is defined in clause 4.2;
local government means the Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley;
normal brigade activities are defined in section 35A of the Act;
Regulations means Regulations made under the Act; and
Rules means the Rules Governing the Operation of Bush Fire Brigades set out in the Schedule 1
as varied from time to time under clause 2.4;
Schedule means the Schedule included in this local law;
simple majority means a majority vote of all members present at a meeting and any proxy votes;
volunteer fire fighter is defined in section 35A of Act.
(2) In this local law, unless the context otherwise requires, a reference to—
(a) a Captain;
(b) a First Lieutenant;
(c) a Second Lieutenant;
Section 1 - Bush Fire Brigades Local Law 2017 - Bush Fire Brigades Local Law 2017 | Zoe
1332 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, WA 15 February 2017
(d) any additional Lieutenants;
(e) an Equipment Officer;
(f) a Secretary;
(g) a Treasurer; or
(h) a Secretary / Treasurer combined,
means a person holding that position in a bush fire brigade.
1.4 Repeal
The Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley Bush Fire Brigades Local Law 2003 as published in the
Government Gazette on 3 December 2003 is repealed.
1.5 Application
This local law applies throughout the district.
PART 2—ESTABLISHMENT OF BUSH FIRE BRIGADES
Division 1—Establishment of a bush fire brigade
2.1 Establishment of a bush fire brigade
(1) The local government may establish a bush fire brigade for the purpose of carrying out normal
brigade activities.
(2) A bush fire brigade is established on the date of the local government’s decision under
subclause (1).
2.2 Name and officers of bush fire brigade
(1) On establishing a bush fire brigade under clause 2.1(1) the local government is to—
(a) give a name to the bush fire brigade;
(b) specify the area in which the bush fire brigade is primarily responsible for carrying out the
normal brigade activities (the brigade area); and
(c) appoint—
(i) a Captain;
(ii) a First Lieutenant;
(iii) a Second Lieutenant;
(iv) additional Lieutenants if the local government considers it necessary;
(v) an Equipment Officer;
(vi) a Secretary; and
(vii) a Treasurer; or
(viii) a Secretary/Treasurer combined.
(2) When considering the appointment of persons to the positions in subclause (1)(c), the local
government is to have regard to the qualifications and experience which may be required to fill each
position.
(3) A person appointed to a position in subclause (1)(c) is to be taken to be a brigade member.
(4) The appointments referred to in subclause (1)(c) expire at the completion of the first annual
general meeting of the bush fire brigade.
(5) If a position referred to in subclause (1)(c) becomes vacant prior to the completion of the first
annual general meeting, then the local government is to appoint a person to fill the vacancy in
accordance with subclause (2).
Division 2—Command at a fire
2.3 Ranks within the bush fire brigade
(1) Where under the Act and Rules Governing the Operation of Bush Fire Brigades members of the
bush fire brigade have command of a fire, unless a bush fire control officer is in attendance at the fire,
the Captain has full control over other persons fighting the fire, and is to issue instructions as to the
methods to be adopted by the fire fighters. In the absence of the Captain, the first Lieutenant, and in
the absence of the first, the second Lieutenant and so on, in the order of seniority determined, is to
exercise all the powers and duties of the Captain.
(2) Where a bush fire control officer is in attendance at a fire which the members of the bush fire
brigade have command of under the Act and the Rules Governing the Operation of Bush Fire
Brigades, the most senior bush fire control officer has full control over other persons fighting the fire
and is to issue instructions as to the methods to be adopted by the fire fighters.
Division 3—Application of Rules to a bush fire brigade
2.4 Rules
(1) The Rules govern the operation of a bush fire brigade.
(2) A bush fire brigade and each brigade member is to comply with the Rules.
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Division 4—Transitional
2.5 Existing Bush Fire Brigades
(1) Where a local government has established a bush fire brigade prior to the commencement date,
then on and from the commencement day—
(a) the bush fire brigade is to be taken to be a bush fire brigade established under and in
accordance with this local law;
(b) the provisions of this local law apply to the bush fire brigade save for clause 2.2; and
(c) any rules governing the operation of the bush fire brigade are to be taken to have been
repealed and substituted with the Rules.
(2) In this clause—
commencement day means the day on which this local law comes into operation.
Division 5—Dissolution of bush fire brigade
2.6 Dissolution of bush fire brigade
In accordance with section 41(3) of the Act, the local government may cancel the registration of a bush
fire brigade if it is of the opinion that the bush fire brigade is not complying with the Act, this local
law, the Rules Governing the Operation of Bush Fire Brigades or the Rules, or is not achieving the
objectives for which it was established.
2.7 New arrangement after dissolution
If a local government cancels the registration of a bush fire brigade, alternative bush fire control
arrangements are to be made in respect of the brigade area.
PART 3—ORGANISATION AND MAINTENANCE OF BUSH FIRE BRIGADES
Division 1—Local government responsibility
3.1 Local government responsible for structure
The local government is to ensure that there is an appropriate structure through which the
organisation of bush fire brigades is maintained.
3.2 Officers to be supplied with Act
The local government is to supply each brigade officer with a copy of the Act, the Regulations, the
Rules Governing the Operation of Bush Fire Brigades, this local law and any other written laws
which may be relevant to the performance of the brigade officers’ functions, and any amendments
which are made thereto from time to time.
Division 2—Chief Bush Fire Control Officer
3.3 Managerial role of Chief Bush Fire Control Officer
Where only 1 person is appointed as a bush fire control officer by the local government, that person is
a Chief Bush Fire Control Officer for the purposes of this local law.
Subject to any directions by the local government the Chief Bush Fire Control Officer has primary
managerial responsibility for the organisation and maintenance of bush fire brigades.
3.4 Chief Bush Fire Control Officer may attend meetings
The Chief Bush Fire Control Officer or her or his nominee (who is to be a bush fire control officer)
may attend as a non-voting representative of the local government at any meeting of a bush fire
brigade.
3.5 Duties of Chief Bush Fire Control Officer
The duties of the Chief Bush Fire Control Officer include but are not limited to—
(a) providing leadership to volunteer fire fighters;
(b) monitoring bush fire brigades’ resourcing, equipment (including protective clothing) and
training levels and report thereon with recommendations at least once a year to the local
government;
(c) liaising with the local government concerning fire prevention or fire suppression matters
generally and directions to be issued by the local government to bush fire control officers
including those who issue permits to burn, bush fire brigades or brigade officers; and
(d) ensuring that bush fire brigades are registered with the local government and that lists of
brigade members are maintained.
Division 3—Annual general meetings of bush fire brigades
3.6 Holding of annual general meeting
A bush fire brigade is to hold its annual general meeting during the month of March each year.
3.7 Nomination of bush fire control officers to Bush Fire Advisory Committee
At the annual general meeting of a bush fire brigade, one brigade member is to be nominated to the
Bush Fire Advisory Committee to serve as the bush fire control officer for the brigade area until the
next annual general meeting.
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3.8 Nomination of bush fire control officer to the local government
If the local government has not established a Bush Fire Advisory Committee, then at the annual
general meeting of a bush fire brigade, the bush fire brigade is to nominate 1 brigade member to the
local government to serve as the bush fire control officer for the brigade area until the next annual
general meeting.
3.9 Minutes to be tabled before the Bush Fire Advisory Committee
(1) The Secretary is to forward a copy of the minutes of the annual general meeting of a bush fire
brigade to the Chief Bush Fire Control Officer within 1 month after the meeting.
(2) The Chief Bush Fire Control Officer is to table the minutes of a bush fire brigade’s annual general
meeting at the next meeting of the—
(a) Bush Fire Advisory Committee; or
(b) Council, if there is no Bush Fire Advisory Committee, following their receipt under
subclause (1).
Division 4—Bush Fire Advisory Committee
3.10 Functions of Advisory Committee
The Bush Fire Advisory Committee is to have the functions set out in section 67 of the Act and is to
include such number of nominees of the bush fire brigades as is determined by the local government.
3.11 Advisory Committee to nominate bush fire control officers
As soon as practicable after the annual general meeting of each bush fire brigade in the district, the
Bush Fire Advisory Committee is to nominate to the local government from the persons nominated by
each bush fire brigade a person for the position of a bush fire control officer for the brigade area.
3.12 Local government to have regard to nominees
When considering persons for the position of a bush fire control officer, the local government is to
have regard to those persons nominated by the Bush Fire Advisory Committee, but is not bound to
appoint the persons nominated.
3.13 Advisory Committee to consider bush fire brigade motions
The Bush Fire Advisory Committee is to make recommendations to the local government on all
motions received by the Bush Fire Advisory Committee from bush fire brigades.
PART 4—TYPES OF BUSH FIRE BRIGADE MEMBERSHIP
4.1 Types of membership of bush fire brigade
The membership of a bush fire brigade consists of the following—
(a) fire fighting members;
(b) associate members;
(c) cadet members; and
(d) honorary life members.
4.2 Fire fighting members
Fire fighting members are those persons being at least 16 years of age who undertake all normal
brigade activities.
4.3 Associate members
Associate members are those persons who are willing to supply free vehicular transport for fire
fighting members or fire fighting equipment, or who are prepared to render other assistance required
by the bush fire brigade.
4.4 Cadet members
Cadet members are—
(a) to be aged 11 to 15 years;
(b) to be admitted to membership only with the consent of their parent or guardian;
(c) admitted for the purpose of training and are not to attend or be in attendance at an
uncontrolled fire or other emergency incident;
(d) to be supervised by a fire fighting member when undertaking normal brigade activities as
defined by paragraphs (c), (d), (e), (f) and (g) of section 35A of the Act;
(e) ineligible to vote at bush fire brigade meetings; and
(f) not to be assigned ranks under the Department’s rank structure.
4.5 Honorary life member
(1) The bush fire brigade may by a simple majority resolution appoint a person as an honorary life
member in recognition of services by that person to the bush fire brigade.
(2) No membership fees are to be payable by an honorary life member.
4.6 Notification of membership
No later than 31 May in each year, the bush fire brigade is to report to the Chief Bush Fire Control
Officer the name, contact details and type of membership of each brigade member.
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PART 5—APPOINTMENT, DISMISSAL AND MANAGEMENT OF MEMBERS
5.1 Rules to govern
The appointment, dismissal and management of brigade members by the bush fire brigade are
governed by the Rules.
PART 6—EQUIPMENT OF BUSH FIRE BRIGADES
6.1 Policies of local government
The local government may make policies under which it—
(a) provides funding to bush fire brigades for the purchase of protective clothing, equipment and
appliances; and
(b) keeps bush fire brigades informed of opportunities for funding from other bodies.
6.2 Equipment in brigade area
Not later than 31 May in each year, the bush fire brigade is to report to the local government the
nature, quantity and quality of all protective clothing, equipment and appliances of the bush fire
brigade which are generally available within the brigade area (or at a station of the bush fire
brigade).
6.3 Funding from local government budget
A request to the local government from the bush fire brigade for funding of protective clothing,
equipment or appliance needs is to be received by the local government by 31 March in order to be
considered in the next following local government budget, and is to be accompanied by the last
audited financial statement and a current statement of assets and liabilities of the bush fire brigade.
6.4 Consideration in the local government budget
The local government may approve or refuse an application for funding depending upon the
assessment of budget priorities for the year in question.
————
SCHEDULE 1—RULES GOVERNING THE OPERATION OF BUSH FIRE BRIGADES
[Clause 2.4]
PART 1—PRELIMINARY
1.1 Interpretation
(1) In these Rules, unless the context otherwise requires, where a term is used in these Rules and is
defined in the local law, the Act or the Regulations, then the term is to be taken to have the meaning
assigned to it in the local law, the Act or the Regulations, as the case may be.
(2) In these Rules, unless the context otherwise requires—
absolute majority means a majority of more than 50% of the number of—
(a) brigade members of the bush fire brigade, whether in attendance at the meeting or not, if
the majority is required at a meeting of the bush fire brigade; or
(b) brigade officers of the bush fire brigade, whether in attendance at the meeting or not, if
the majority is required at a meeting of the Committee;
Committee means the Committee of the bush fire brigade;
local law means the Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley Bush Fire Brigades Local Law 2017; and
normal brigade activities are defined by section 35A of the Act.
(3) Subject to these Rules, where a decision is to be made by the bush fire brigade, then the decision
may be made by a resolution passed by a simple majority of the brigade members who are present in
person or by proxy at the meeting.
(4) Subject to these Rules, where a decision is to be made by the Committee, then the decision may be
made by a resolution passed by a simple majority of the brigade officers who are present in person or
by proxy at the meeting.
PART 2—OBJECTS AND MEMBERSHIP OF BUSH FIRE BRIGADE
2.1 Objects of bush fire brigade
The objects of the bush fire brigade are to carry out—
(a) the normal brigade activities; and
(b) the functions of the bush fire brigade which are specified in the Act, the Regulations and the
local law.
2.2 Committee to determine applications
Applications for membership are to be determined by the Committee.
2.3 Conditions of membership
In relation to any type of membership, as described in Part 4 of the local law, the bush fire brigade
may establish policies pertaining to—
(a) the qualifications required;
1336 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, WA 15 February 2017
(b) fees payable, if any;
(c) a requirement to serve a probationary period;
(d) procedures to be employed by the Committee prior to approval of an application for
membership,
and the Committee is to act within the parameters of any such policy in determining applications for
membership.
2.4 Applications for membership
An application for membership is to be in writing and is to be submitted to the Secretary and in the
case of—
(a) an application for firefighting membership is to be accompanied by a completed form in the
form of that in Appendix I.
(b) an application for associate membership is to be accompanied by a completed form in the
form of that in Appendix II.
(c) an application for cadet membership is to be accompanied by a completed form in the form of
that in Appendix III.
2.5 Decision on application for membership
(1) The Committee may—
(a) approve an application for membership unconditionally or subject to any conditions; or
(b) refuse to approve an application for membership.
(2) If the Committee refuses to approve an application for membership, it is to give written reasons
for the refusal, as soon as practicable after the decision is made, to the applicant and the advice that
the applicant has the right to object to the local government.
2.6 Department to be notified of registrations
If any application for membership is approved, the Secretary of the bush fire brigade is to supply
registration details to the Department of Fire and Emergency Services within 14 days of a person
being admitted to membership in the form required by the Department from time to time.
2.7 Termination of membership
(1) Membership of the bush fire brigade terminates if the member—
(a) dies;
(b) gives written notice of resignation to the Secretary;
(c) is, in the opinion of the Committee, permanently incapacitated by mental or physical ill-
health;
(d) is dismissed by the Committee; or
(e) ceases to be a member or is taken to have resigned under subclause (2).
(2) A brigade member whose membership fees are more than 1 year in arrears is to be taken to have
resigned from the bush fire brigade.
2.8 Suspension of membership
(1) Membership of the bush fire brigade may be suspended at any time if, in the opinion of the
Committee, circumstances warrant suspending the member.
(2) The period of suspension shall be at the discretion of the Committee.
(3) Upon the expiry of the period of suspension the Committee may—
(a) extend the period of suspension;
(b) terminate the membership; or
(c) reinstate the membership.
2.9 Existing liabilities to continue
(1) The resignation, or dismissal of a member under clause 2.7 does not affect any liability of the
brigade member arising prior to the date of resignation or dismissal.
2.10 Member has right of defence
A brigade member is not to be dismissed under clause 2.7(1)(d) without being given the opportunity to
meet with the Committee and answer any charges which might give grounds for dismissal.
2.11 Objection Rights
A person whose—
(a) application for membership is refused under clause 2.5(1)(b);
(b) membership is terminated under clause 2.7(1)(c), clause 2.7(1)(d) or clause 2.8(3)(b); or
(c) membership is suspended under clause 2.8(1) or clause 2.8(3)(a),
has the right of objection to the local government which may dispose of the objection by—
(a) dismissing the objection;
(b) varying the decision objected to; or
(c) revoking the decision objected to, with or without—
(i) substituting for it another decision; or
(ii) referring the matter, with or without directions, for another decision by the Committee.
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PART 3—FUNCTIONS OF BRIGADE OFFICERS
3.1 Chain of command during fire fighting activities
Subject to the Act and the local law, the command procedures to apply during fire fighting activities
are as detailed in the local government’s Rules Governing the Operation of Bush Fire Brigades.
3.2 Duties of Captain
(1) Subject to subclause (2), the Captain is to preside at all meetings.
(2) In the absence of the Captain, the meeting may elect another person to preside at the meeting.
3.3 Secretary
(1) The Secretary is to—
(a) be in attendance at all meetings and keep a correct minute and account of the proceedings of
the bush fire brigade in a book which shall be open for inspection by brigade members at any
reasonable time;
(b) answer all correspondence or direct it appropriately, and keep a record of the same;
(c) prepare and send out all necessary notices of meetings;
(d) receive membership fees, donations and other monies on behalf of the bush fire brigade, and
remit them to the Treasurer upon receipt;
(e) complete and forward an incident report form in the form required by the Department to the
Chief Bush Fire Control Officer and the Department within 14 days after attendance by the
bush fire brigade at an incident;
(f) maintain a register of all current brigade members which includes each brigade member’s
contact details and type of membership; and
(g) provide no later than 31 May in each year, a report to the Chief Bush Fire Control Officer
detailing the name, contact details and type of membership of each brigade member.
(2) Where a bush fire brigade attends an incident on more than 1 day, the incident report form is to be
completed and forwarded under subclause (1)(e) within 14 days after the last day of attendance.
3.4 Treasurer
The Treasurer is to—
(a) receive donations and deposits from the Secretary, and deposit all monies to the credit of the
bush fire brigade’s bank account;
(b) pay accounts as authorised by the Committee;
(c) keep a record of all monies received and payments made, maintain the accounts and prepare
the balance sheet for each financial year;
(d) be the custodian of all monies of the bush fire brigade;
(e) regularly inform the Secretary of the names of those brigade members who have paid their
membership fees; and
(f) report on the financial position at meetings of the bush fire brigade or Committee.
3.5 Equipment Officer
The Equipment Officer is responsible for the custody and maintenance in good order and condition of
all protective clothing, equipment and appliances provided by the local government to the bush fire
brigade or of the bush fire brigade.
3.6 Storage of equipment
(1) The Equipment Officer may store all of the equipment of the bush fire brigade at a place approved
by the Captain (the “station”).
(2) If there is to be more than one station in the brigade area, the Equipment Officer is to appoint in
respect of each station a person who is responsible for the custody and maintenance in good order and
condition of all equipment and appliances at the station, subject to any direction of the Equipment
Officer.
3.7 Equipment Officer to report
The Equipment Officer is to provide, no later than 31 May of each year, a report to the local
government and bush fire brigade Captain describing the nature, quantity and quality of all
protective clothing, equipment and appliances of the bush fire brigade which are generally available
within the bush fire brigade area or at a station of the bush fire brigade.
PART 4—COMMITTEE
4.1 Management of bush fire brigade
(1) Subject to the provisions of these Rules, the administration and management of the affairs of the
bush fire brigade are vested in the Committee.
(2) Without limiting the generality of subclause (1), the Committee is to have the following
functions—
(a) to recommend to the local government amendments to these Rules;
(b) to draft the annual budget for the bush fire brigade and present it at the annual general
meeting of the bush fire brigade;
1338 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, WA 15 February 2017
(c) to propose a motion for consideration at any meeting of the bush fire brigade;
(d) to recommend to the local government equipment which needs to be supplied by the local
government to the bush fire brigade;
(e) to invest or place on deposit any of the funds of the bush fire brigade not immediately
required to perform the normal brigade activities;
(f) to delegate to a person, as from time to time thought fit, any functions (being less than the
total functions of the Committee) on any conditions it thinks fit;
(g) to do all things necessary or convenient in order to perform any of its functions and to secure
the performance of the normal brigade activities by the bush fire brigade; and
(h) deal with membership applications, grievances, disputes and disciplinary matters.
4.2 Constitution of Committee
(1) The Committee of the bush fire brigade is to consist of the brigade officers being the Captain,
Secretary, Treasurer, Equipment Officer and the Lieutenants of the bush fire brigade.
(2) The brigade officers are to—
(a) be elected at the annual general meeting of the bush fire brigade;
(b) hold office until the next annual general meeting; and
(c) be eligible for re-election at the next annual general meeting.
(3) Any brigade officer may be removed from office by an absolute majority decision of the brigade
members present in person or by proxy at a special meeting called for such a purpose.
(4) The Committee may appoint a brigade member to fill a vacancy in any office arising from a
resolution under subclause (3) or which has arisen for any other reason.
PART 5—MEETINGS OF BUSH FIRE BRIGADE
5.1 Ordinary meetings
(1) Ordinary meetings may be called at any time by the Secretary by giving at least 7 days’ notice to
all brigade members and to the Chief Bush Fire Control Officer, for the purpose of—
(a) organising and checking equipment;
(b) requisitioning new or replacement equipment;
(c) organising field excursions, training sessions, hazard reduction programs, and the
preparation of fire-breaks;
(d) establishing new procedures in respect of any of the normal brigade activities; and
(e) dealing with any general business.
(2) In a notice given under subclause (1), the Secretary is to specify the business which is to be
conducted at the meeting.
(3) Business may be conducted at an ordinary meeting of the bush fire brigade notwithstanding that
it was not specified in a notice given under subclause (1), in relation to that meeting.
5.2 Special meetings
(1) The Secretary is to call a special meeting when 5 or more brigade members request 1 in writing.
(2) At least 2 days’ notice of a special meeting is to be given by the Secretary, to all brigade members
and to the Chief Bush Fire Control Officer.
(3) In a notice given under subclause (2) the Secretary is to specify the business which is to be
conducted at the meeting.
(4) No business is to be conducted at a special meeting beyond that specified in a notice given under
subclause (2) in relation to that meeting.
5.3 Annual general meeting
(1) At least 7 days’ notice of the annual general meeting is to be given by the Secretary to all brigade
members and to the Chief Bush Fire Control Officer.
(2) At the annual general meeting the bush fire brigade is to—
(a) elect the brigade officers from among the brigade members;
(b) consider the Captain’s report on the year’s activities;
(c) adopt the annual financial statements;
(d) appoint an Auditor for the ensuing financial year in accordance with clause 5.6; and
(e) deal with any general business.
(3) In a notice given under subclause (1), the Secretary is to specify the business which is to be
conducted at the meeting.
(4) Business may be conducted at an annual general meeting notwithstanding that, it was not
specified in a notice given under subclause (1) in relation to that meeting.
5.4 Quorum
(1) The quorum for a meeting of the bush fire brigade is at least 50% of the number of offices (whether
vacant or not) of member of the bush fire brigade.
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(2) No business is to be transacted at a meeting of the bush fire brigade unless a quorum of brigade
members is present in person or by proxy.
(3) If a meeting ceases to have a quorum at any time, the presiding member is to immediately—
(a) close the meeting; or
(b) adjourn the meeting for 10 minutes, after which the meeting is to be closed if a quorum is not
achieved within that time.
5.5 Voting
Each brigade member is to have 1 vote, however in the event of an equality of votes, the Captain (or
person presiding) may exercise a casting vote.
5.6 Auditor
(1) At the annual general meeting a person, not being a brigade member, is to be appointed as the
Auditor of the bush fire brigade for the ensuing financial year.
(2) The Auditor is to audit the accounts of the bush fire brigade not less than 7 days before the annual
general meeting and is to certify to their correctness or otherwise and present a report at the annual
general meeting.
PART 6—MEETINGS OF COMMITTEE
6.1 Meetings of Committee
(1) The Committee is to meet for the despatch of business, adjourn and otherwise regulate its meeting
as it thinks fit.
(2) The Captain or Secretary may convene a meeting of the Committee at any time.
6.2 Quorum
No business is to be transacted at a meeting of the Committee unless a quorum of 3 brigade officers
are present in person.
6.3 Voting
Each brigade officer is to have 1 vote, however in the case of an equality of votes, the Captain (or
person presiding) may exercise a casting vote.
PART 7—GENERAL ADMINISTRATION MATTERS
7.1 Fees
(1) The membership fees, if any, for each type of member for the ensuing 12 months are to be
determined by the bush fire brigade at the annual general meeting.
(2) Subject to subclause (3), a member is to pay the membership fees for her or his type of
membership on or before 1 May.
(3) The bush fire brigade may exempt a brigade member, or a class of membership, from the payment
of membership fees, for such period and on such conditions as the bush fire brigade may determine.
7.2 Funds
The funds of the bush fire brigade are to be used solely for the purpose of promoting the objects of the
bush fire brigade.
7.3 Financial year
The financial year of the bush fire brigade is to commence on 1 July and is to end on 30 June of the
following year.
7.4 Banking
(1) The funds of the bush fire brigade are to be placed in a bank account and are to be drawn on only
by cheques signed jointly by any 2 of the Captain, Secretary or Treasurer.
(2) If the Secretary/Treasurer is a combined position, the Captain and Secretary/Treasurer are to sign
the cheques referred to in subclause (1).
7.5 Disclosure of interests
(1) A brigade member shall disclose to the bush fire brigade or Committee any financial interest,
whether direct or indirect, he or she may have in any matter being considered by the bush fire
brigade or Committee, as appropriate.
(2) If a financial interest has been disclosed under subclause (1), then the bush fire brigade or
Committee, as appropriate, is to decide, in the absence of the brigade member who disclosed that
interest, whether or not the brigade member is to be permitted to vote on that matter.
(3) Where the bush fire brigade or Committee, as appropriate, decides under subclause (2), that a
brigade member is not to be permitted to vote on a matter, and the brigade member votes on the
matter, then her or his vote is to be taken to have no effect and is not to be counted.
7.6 Disagreements
(1) Any disagreement between brigade members may be referred to either the Captain or to the
Committee.
1340 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, WA 15 February 2017
(2) Where a disagreement in subclause (1) is considered by the Captain or the Committee to be of
importance to the interests of the bush fire brigade, then the Captain or the Committee, as the case
may be, is to refer the disagreement to the annual general meeting, an ordinary meeting or a special
meeting of the bush fire brigade.
(3) The local government is the final arbiter on matters affecting the bush fire brigade, and may
resolve any disagreement which is not resolved under subclause (1) or (2).
PART 8—NOTICES AND PROXIES
8.1 Notices
(1) Notices of meetings of the bush fire brigade are to be in writing and sent by ordinary post to the
registered address of each brigade member.
(2) Notices of meetings of the Committee may be given in writing in accordance with subclause (1) or
by such other means as the Committee may decide, by an absolute majority, at a meeting of the
Committee.
(3) Any accidental omission to give notice of a meeting to, or non-receipt by a person entitled to
receive such notice, is not to invalidate the meeting the subject of the notice or any resolutions passed
at the meeting.
(4) Where any notice other than a notice of meeting is to be given under these Rules, the notice is to
be—
(a) in writing;
(b) unless otherwise specified, given to or by the Secretary;
(c) given by—
(i) personal delivery;
(ii) post; or
(iii) facsimile transmission;
(d) taken to have been received, as the case may be—
(i) at the time of personal delivery;
(ii) 2 business days after posting; or
(iii) on the printing of the sender’s transmission report.
8.2 Proxies
(1) Where under these Rules a brigade member may vote by proxy, in order for the proxy to so vote,
the brigade member or the proxy shall give a notice in the form of that appearing in this clause, to the
Secretary or the person presiding at the meeting before the start of the meeting at which the proxy is
to be used.
(2) A proxy is to be valid for the meeting for which it is given and for any adjournments of that
meeting.
(3) A proxy shall be valid for the number of votes to which the brigade member is entitled.
(4) If the donor of the proxy does not give any indication of the manner in which the proxy is to vote,
the proxy shall be entitled to vote or not vote as he or she thinks fit.
(5) A proxy shall be entitled to speak on behalf of the donor of the proxy.
(6) All forms appointing proxies deposited under subclause (1) are to be retained by the Secretary for
not less than 28 days after the conclusion of the meeting to which they relate but if there is any
objection to the validity of any vote at the meeting, they are to be retained until the determination of
that objection.
(7) The form appointing a proxy shall be in writing and signed by the brigade member appointing the
proxy and shall be in or substantially in the form set out below—
Form 1
PROXY VOTE
SHIRE OF WYNDHAM EAST KIMBERLEY BUSH FIRE BRIGADE
[ANNUAL] [EXTRAORDINARY] GENERAL MEETING
TO BE HELD ON [DATE]
I, ______________________________________________________, being a brigade member appoint—
_________________________________________ to be my proxy and vote on my behalf at the
meeting of the bush fire brigade to be held on [insert date] and at any adjournment of it. The
proxy shall vote as follows—
MOTION FOR AGAINST ABSTAIN
. . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . .
If there is no instruction to the proxy as to the way to vote, the proxy shall exercise her or his
discretion as to how to vote or whether to vote at all. In respect of any vote taken at the meeting
on a matter which does not appear on the agenda, the proxy shall exercise her or his discretion
as to the way he or she casts the vote or whether it is cast at all.
Date: __________________________
Signed: __________________________
15 February 2017 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, WA 1341
NOTE: To be valid this proxy must be completed and returned to the Secretary of the bush fire
brigade (or the presiding member) prior to the commencement of the meeting for which the
proxy is valid.
Dated this day of 20 . . . . . .
————
APPENDIX I
APPLICATION FOR MEMBERSHIP—FIRE FIGHTING MEMBER
I make application to be a fire fighting member of the Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley Bush Fire
Brigade.
Applicant’s Name ...........................................................................................................................................
My private address is ....................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................................................
My business address is ..................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................................................
Usual Occupation ...........................................................................................................................................
I can be contacted on—
Telephone No: ..................................... (Home) ..................................... (Work) ................................ Mobile
Fax No: ............................................. (Home) ........................................... (Work) .........................................
CB Radio .......................................... Channel ......................................... Call Sign......................................
If needed, I can provide my own transport to the scene of any outbreak. (This line to be struck out if
not applicable)
I hold a current driver’s licence No. ......................................... Classes ...................................................
I declare that I am at least 16 years of age and in good health with no known medical conditions
which might limit my capacity to fight fires.
I give these undertakings—
(1) to promote the objects of the bush fire brigade as far as is in my power;
(2) to be governed by the provisions of the Bush Fires Act 1954 and the Regulations made under
that Act, and the local law and policies of the Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley relevant to
fire control and bush fire brigades;
(3) to use my best endeavours to give assistance in fire fighting measures when called upon and
on such occasions to obey all orders and instructions issued by duly authorised officers of the
bush fire brigade or the local government;
(4) to comply with the Rules of the bush fire brigade.
Date ..................................................... .......................................................................
Applicant’s signature
Please list here any fire fighting equipment owned by you.
.........................................................................................................
BUSH FIRE BRIGADE USE ONLY:
APPROVED / DECLINED
Signed: .........................................
Brigade Captain
————
APPENDIX II
APPLICATION FOR MEMBERSHIP—ASSOCIATE MEMBER
I make application to be an associate member of the Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley Bush Fire
Brigade.
(a) I am prepared to offer to transport fire fighting members and/or equipment to the scene of
any outbreak when called upon. I have a motor vehicle of the following type .............................
available for such purpose.
MDL No: ........................................... Classes: ..........................................................
(b) I am prepared to offer my services in the following capacity—
...........................................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................................
(paragraph (a) or (b) above may be struck out if not applicable)
Applicant’s Name ...........................................................................................................................................
My private address is ....................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................................................
1342 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, WA 15 February 2017
My business address is .................................................................................................................................
.......................................................................................................................................................................
I can be contacted on—
Telephone No:......................................(Home) ..................................... (Work) ................................ Mobile
Fax No: ............................................. (Home) ........................................... (Work) .........................................
CB Radio: .......................................... Channel ......................................... Call Sign .....................................
I give these undertakings—
(1) to promote the objects of the bush fire brigade as far as is in my power;
(2) to be governed by the provisions of the Bush Fires Act 1954 and any Regulations made under
the Act and the local law and policies of the [insert name of local government] relevant to fire
control and bush fire brigades;
(3) to use my best endeavours to assist in normal bush fire brigade activities as an associate
member when called upon;
(4) to comply with the Rules of the bush fire brigade.
Date ..................................................... .......................................................................
Applicant’s signature
BUSH FIRE BRIGADE USE ONLY:
APPROVED / DECLINED
Signed: .........................................
Brigade Captain
————
APPENDIX III
APPLICATION FOR MEMBERSHIP—CADET MEMBER
I make application to be a cadet member of the Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley Bush Fire Brigade.
Applicant’s Name ..........................................................................................................................................
My private address is ....................................................................................................................................
.......................................................................................................................................................................
I can be contacted on—
Telephone No:.................................................................. (Home) ...................................................... (Work)
Fax No: ............................................. (Home)
CB Radio: .......................................... Channel ......................................... Call Sign .....................................
I declare that I am ...................... years of age and in good health.
Date of Birth: ............................................
I give these undertakings—
(1) to promote the objects of the bush fire brigade as far as is in my power;
(2) to be governed by the provisions of the Bush Fires Act 1954 and the Regulations made under
that Act, and the local law and policies of the Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley relevant to
the activities of cadet members;
(3) to obey all orders and instructions issued by duly authorised officers of the bush fire brigade
or the local government;
(4) to comply with the Rules of the bush fire brigade.
Date ..................................................... .......................................................................
Applicant’s signature
PARENT / GUARDIAN CONSENT—
I ................................................................................... being the parent/guardian of the above applicant,
consent to him/her being a cadet member of the Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley Bush Fire
Brigade, in accordance with the rules applicable to cadet membership.
Signed .............................................................
BUSH FIRE BRIGADE USE ONLY:
APPROVED / DECLINED
Signed: .........................................
Brigade Captain
————
Dated: 31 January 2017.
The Common Seal of the Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley was affixed by authority of a resolution of
the Council in the presence of—
RON YURYEVICH, Commissioner.
CARL ASKEW, Chief Executive Officer.
———————————
15 February 2017 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, WA 1343
LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 1995
DIVIDING FENCES ACT 1961
SHIRE OF WYNDHAM EAST KIMBERLEY
FENCING LOCAL LAW 2017
Contents
PART 1—PRELIMINARY
1.1 Citation
1.2 Commencement
1.3 Purpose and effect
1.4 Application
1.5 Repeal
1.6 Definitions
1.7 Licence fees and charges
PART 2—FENCES
2.1 Sufficient fences
2.2 Fences within front setback areas
2.3 Gates in fences
2.4 Depositing fencing material on public place
2.5 Fences on a Rural Lot
2.6 Maintenance of fences
2.7 Fences across rights-of-way, public access ways or thoroughfares
2.8 General discretion of the local government
2.9 Pre-used fencing materials
2.10 Barbed wire fences and spiked or jagged materials
2.11 Electrified and razor wire fences
2.12 Prohibited fencing materials
PART 3—APPROVALS
3.1 Application for approval
3.2 Decision on application for approval
3.3 Compliance with approval
3.4 Duration of approval
PART 4—MISCELLANEOUS
4.1 False or misleading statement
PART 5—NOTICES OF BREACH
5.1 Notices of breach
PART 6—OFFENCES
6.1 Offences and penalties
6.2 Modified penalties
6.3 Form of notices
PART 7—OBJECTIONS AND REVIEW
7.1 Objections and review
1344 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, WA 15 February 2017
SCHEDULE 1—OFFENCES AND MODIFIED PENALTIES
SCHEDULE 2—SPECIFICATIONS FOR A SUFFICIENT FENCE ON A RESIDENTIAL LOT
SCHEDULE 3—SPECIFICATIONS FOR A SUFFICIENT FENCE ON A COMMERCIAL LOT
OR AN INDUSTRIAL LOT
SCHEDULE 4—SPECIFICATIONS FOR A SUFFICIENT FENCE ON A RURAL LOT OR
SPECIAL RURAL LOT
SCHEDULE 5—LICENCE FOR APPROVED ELECTRIFIED FENCE
SCHEDULE 6—LICENCE FOR APPROVED RAZOR WIRE FENCE
15 February 2017 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, WA 1345
LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 1995
DIVIDING FENCES ACT 1961
SHIRE OF WYNDHAM EAST KIMBERLEY
FENCING LOCAL LAW 2017
Under the powers conferred by the Local Government Act 1995 and all other powers enabling it, the
Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley resolved on 28 January 2017 to make the following local law.
PART 1—PRELIMINARY
1.1 Citation
This local law is the Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley Fencing Local Law 2017.
1.2 Commencement
This local law comes into operation 14 days after the date of its publication in the Government
Gazette.
1.3 Purpose and effect
(1) The purpose of this local law is to prescribe a sufficient fence and the standard for the construction
of fences throughout the district.
(2) The effect of this local law is to establish the minimum requirements for fencing within the
district.
1.4 Application
This local law applies throughout the district.
1.5 Repeal
The Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley Local Laws relating to Fencing 2003 published in the
Government Gazette on 3 December 2003 is repealed.
1.6 Definitions
In this local law—
Act means the Dividing Fences Act 1961;
applicant means a person who makes an application for approval under this local law;
AS or AS/NZS means an Australian or Australian/New Zealand Standard as published by
Standards Australia and as amended from time to time;
Barbed wire fence means a wire or strand of wires having small pieces of sharply pointed wire
twisted around it at short intervals;
boundary fence has the meaning given to it by the Act;
Building Surveyor means a Building Surveyor of the local government;
CEO means the Chief Executive Officer of the local government;
Commercial Lot means a lot where a commercial use—
(a) is or may be permitted under the district planning scheme; and
(b) is or will be the predominant use of the lot;
dangerous in relation to any fence means—
(a) an electrified fence other than a fence approved by the local government under this local
law;
(b) a fence containing barbed wire other than a fence erected and maintained in accordance
with this local law;
(c) a fence containing exposed broken glass, asbestos fibre, razor wire or any other
potentially harmful projection or material; or
(d) a fence which is likely to collapse or fall, or part of which is likely to collapse or fall, from
any cause;
district means the district of the local government;
1346 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, WA 15 February 2017
district planning scheme means a local planning scheme of the local government made under
the Planning and Development Act 2005;
dividing fence has the meaning given to it by the Act;
electrified fence means a fence carrying or designed to carry an electric charge;
fence means any structure, not including a retaining wall, used or functioning as a barrier,
irrespective of where it is located and includes any gate;
front boundary means the boundary line between a lot and the thoroughfare upon which that
lot abuts, or in the case of a lot abutting on more than 1 thoroughfare, the boundary line
between the lot and the primary thoroughfare;
front setback area means the area between the building line of a lot and the front boundary of
that lot;
height in relation to a fence means the vertical distance between—
(a) the top of the fence at any point; and
(b) the ground level or, where the ground levels on each side of the fence are not the same,
the higher ground level, immediately below that point;
Industrial Lot means a lot where an industrial use—
(a) is or may be permitted under the district planning scheme; and
(b) is or will be the predominant use of the lot;
licence means an electrified fence licence or a razor wire fence licence;
local government means the Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley;
local government property means anything except a thoroughfare—
(a) which belongs to the local government;
(b) of which the local government is the management body under the Land Administration
Act 1997; or
(c) which is an “otherwise unvested facility” under section 3.53 of the Local Government
Act 1995;
lot has the meaning given to it in and for the purposes of the Planning and Development
Act 2005;
notice of breach means a notice referred to in clause 5.1;
occupier has the meaning given to it in the Local Government Act 1995;
owner has the meaning given to it in the Local Government Act 1995;
razor wire fence means a coiled strong wire with pieces of sharp cutting edges set across it at
close intervals;
Residential Lot means a lot where a residential use—
(a) is or may be permitted under the district planning scheme; and
(b) is or will be the predominant use of the lot;
retaining wall means any structure which prevents the movement of soil or retains soil or
structures in order to allow ground levels of different elevations to exist adjacent to one
another;
Rural Lot means a lot where a rural use—
(a) is or may be permitted under the district planning scheme; and
(b) is or will be the predominant use of the lot;
Schedule means a Schedule to this local law;
Special Rural Lot means a lot where a special rural use—
(a) is or may be permitted under the district planning scheme; and
(b) is or will be the predominant use of the lot;
Structural engineer means a qualified engineer trained to understand and calculate the
stability, strength and rigidity of built structures for buildings and non-building structures;
sufficient fence means a fence described in clause 2.1;
thoroughfare has the meaning given to it by the Local Government Act 1995, but does not
include a private thoroughfare which is not under the management or control of the local
government.
1.7 Licence fees and charges
All licence fees and charges applicable under this local law shall be determined by the local
government from time to time in accordance with section 6.16 of the Local Government Act 1995.
PART 2—FENCES
Division 1—Sufficient fences
2.1 Sufficient fences
(1) A person shall not erect a dividing fence or a boundary fence that is not a sufficient fence.
(2) Subject to subclauses (3) and (4), a sufficient fence—
(a) on a Residential Lot is a dividing fence or a boundary fence constructed and maintained in
accordance with the specifications and requirements of Schedule 2;
15 February 2017 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, WA 1347
(b) on a Commercial Lot and on an Industrial Lot is a dividing fence or a boundary fence
constructed and maintained in accordance with the specifications and requirements of
Schedule 3; and
(c) on a Rural Lot and on a Special Rural Lot is a dividing fence or a boundary fence constructed
and maintained in accordance with the specifications and requirements of Schedule 4.
(3) Where a fence is erected on or near the boundary between—
(a) a Residential Lot and an Industrial Lot, a sufficient fence is a dividing fence constructed and
maintained in accordance with the specifications and requirements of Schedule 2;
(b) a Residential Lot and a Commercial Lot, a sufficient fence is a dividing fence constructed and
maintained in accordance with the specifications and requirements of Schedule 3;
(c) a Residential Lot and a Rural Lot, a sufficient fence is a dividing fence constructed and
maintained in accordance with the specifications and requirements of Schedule 4;
(d) a Residential Lot and a Special Rural Lot, a sufficient fence is a dividing fence constructed
and maintained in accordance with the specifications and requirements of Schedule 4; and
(e) a Special Rural Lot and a Rural Lot, a sufficient fence is a dividing fence constructed and
maintained in accordance with the specifications and requirements of Schedule 4.
(4) An application must be made to the local government for grant of consent to any variation to the
specifications in Schedules 2, 3 and 4.
(5) Unless an authorised person determines otherwise, a sufficient fence on a boundary between lots
other than those specified in subclause (3) is a dividing fence constructed in accordance with the
specifications and requirements of Schedule 2.
(6) Notwithstanding any other provision in this local law, a dividing fence or boundary fence
constructed of masonry, stone or concrete shall be a sufficient fence only if it is designed by a suitably
qualified structural engineer and constructed in accordance with that design where—
(a) it is greater than 1 800 mm in height; or
(b) the Building Surveyor so requires.
(7) Notwithstanding any other provision in this local law, a dividing fence or boundary fence shall not
exceed 1 800 mm in height unless the approval of the local government has been obtained for such a
fence.
Division 2—General
2.2 Fences within front setback areas
(1) A person shall not, without the written consent of the Building Surveyor, erect a freestanding
fence greater than 1 200 mm in height, within the front setback area of a Residential Lot within the
district.
(2) The Building Surveyor may approve the erection of a fence of a height greater than 1 200 mm in
the front setback area of a Residential Lot only if the fence on each side of the driveway into the lot
across the front boundary is to be angled into the lot for a distance of not less than 1 500 mm along
the frontage to a distance of not less than 1 500 mm from the frontage in order to provide appropriate
splayed lines of vision for a motorist using the driveway for access to a thoroughfare.
(3) The provision of subclause (2) shall not apply to a fence, of open construction, that does not
obscure the lines of vision of a motorist using the driveway for access to a thoroughfare.
2.3 Gates in fences
A person shall not erect a gate in a fence, which does not—
(a) open into the lot; or
(b) open by sliding parallel and on the inside of the fence, which it forms part of, when closed.
2.4 Depositing fencing material on public place
A person shall not deposit or permit the deposit of any materials used in the construction or
maintenance of any fence, on any thoroughfare, public place or local government property unless the
approval of the local government has been obtained.
2.5 Fences on a Rural Lot
A person shall not, without the written consent of the Building Surveyor, erect a fence on a Rural Lot
of a height exceeding 1,500 mm.
2.6 Maintenance of fences
An owner of a lot on which a fence is erected shall maintain the fence in good condition so as to
prevent it from becoming dangerous, dilapidated, or unsightly to the amenity of the locality.
2.7 Fences across rights-of-way, public access ways or thoroughfares
A person must not, without the approval of the local government, erect or maintain a fence or
obstruction of a temporary or permanent nature across any right-of-way, public access way or
thoroughfare so as to impede or prevent use of those facilities in the manner for which they are
intended and constructed.
2.8 General discretion of the local government
(1) Notwithstanding the provisions of clause 2.1, the local government may approve the erection or
repair of a dividing fence, which is not a sufficient fence if all of the owners of the lots to be separated
by the dividing fence makes an application for approval for that purpose.
1348 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, WA 15 February 2017
(2) In determining whether to grant its approval under subclause (1), the local government may
consider whether the erection or retention of the fence would have an adverse effect on—
(a) the safe or convenient use of any land;
(b) the safety or convenience of any person; or
(c) the visual amenity of the locality.
Division 3—Fencing materials
2.9 Pre-used fencing materials
Where required by the Building Surveyor, fencing designs are to be certified by a practicing structural
engineer as being suitable for wind loadings found in Region B and C areas in accordance with the
current edition of AS/NZS 1170.0:2002 Structural design actions—General principles.
(1) Notwithstanding clause 2.1, a person shall not construct a fence on a Residential Lot, a
Commercial Lot or an Industrial Lot from pre-used materials without the approval of the
local government.
(2) Where the local government approves the use of pre-used materials in the construction of a
fence under subclause (1), that approval shall be conditional on the applicant painting or
treating the pre-used material as directed by the Building Surveyor.
2.10 Barbed wire fences and spiked or jagged materials
(1) This clause does not apply to a fence constructed wholly or partly of razor wire.
(2) An owner or occupier of a Residential Lot or a Commercial Lot shall not erect, affix or allow to
remain on any fence on such a lot any barbed wire or other material with spiked or jagged projections,
unless the prior written approval of the local government has been obtained.
(3) An owner or occupier of an Industrial Lot shall not erect, affix or allow to remain on any fence
bounding that lot any barbed wire or other materials with spiked or jagged projections unless the wire
or other materials are carried on posts at an angle of 45 degrees, and unless the bottom row of wire or
other materials is setback 150mm from the face of the fence and is not nearer than 2000mm from the
ground level.
(4) If the posts which carry the barbed wire or other materials referred to in subclause (3) are angled
towards the outside of the lot bounded by the fence, the face of the fence must be set back from the lot
boundary a sufficient distance to ensure that the angled posts, barbed wire or other materials do not
encroach on adjoining land.
(5) An owner or occupier of a lot shall not erect, affix or allow to remain as part of any fence or wall,
whether internal or external, on that lot any broken glass.
(6) An owner or occupier of a Rural Lot shall not erect, affix or allow to remain any barbed wire upon
a fence on that lot where the fence is adjacent to a thoroughfare or other public place unless the
barbed wire is fixed to the side of the fence posts furthest from the thoroughfare or other public place.
2.11 Electrified and razor wire fences
(1) An owner or occupier of a lot shall not—
(a) construct or use an electrified fence on that lot without obtaining the approval of the local
government in the form prescribed in Schedule 5; or
(b) construct a fence wholly or partly of razor wire on that lot without obtaining the approval of
the local government in the form prescribed in Schedule 6.
(2) The local government shall not approve an application for the purpose of subclause (1)(a)—
(a) in respect of a lot which is or which abuts a Residential Lot;
(b) unless the electrified fence complies with AS/NZS 3016:2002 Electrical installations—
Electricity security fences; and
(c) unless provision is made so as to enable the fence to be rendered inoperable during the hours
of business operations, if any, on the lot where it is erected.
(3) The local government shall not approve an application for the purpose of subclause (1)(b)—
(a) if the fence is within 3 000 mm of the boundary of the lot; or
(b) where any razor wire used in the construction of the fence is less than 2 000 mm or more than
2 400 mm above the ground level.
(4) An application for approval for the purpose of subclauses (1)(a) or (1)(b) shall be made by the
owner of the lot on which the fence is or is to be erected, or by the occupier of the lot with the written
consent of the owner.
2.12 Prohibited fencing materials
A person shall not affix or use broken glass in the construction of any fence.
PART 3—APPROVALS
3.1 Application for approval
(1) Where a person is required to obtain the approval of the local government under this local law,
that person shall apply for approval in accordance with subclause (2).
15 February 2017 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, WA 1349
(2) An application for approval under this local law shall—
(a) be in the form determined by the local government;
(b) be signed by the applicant and the owner of the lot;
(c) provide the information required by the form; and
(d) be forwarded to the CEO together with any fee imposed and determined by the local
government under and in accordance with sections 6.19 of the Local Government Act 1995.
(3) The local government may require an applicant to provide additional information reasonably
related to an application before determining an application for approval.
(4) The local government may refuse to consider an application for approval which is not in
accordance with subclauses (2) and (3).
3.2 Decision on application for approval
(1) The local government may—
(a) approve an application for approval unconditionally or subject to any conditions; or
(b) refuse to approve an application for approval.
(2) If the local government approves an application for approval, it is to issue to the applicant an
approval in the form determined by the local government.
(3) If the local government refuses to approve an application for approval, it is to give written notice of
that refusal to the applicant.
(4) Where a clause of this local law refers to conditions which may be imposed on an approval or
which are to be taken to be imposed on an approval, the clause does not limit the power of the local
government to impose other conditions on the approval under subclause (1)(a).
3.3 Compliance with approval
Where an application for approval has been approved, the applicant and the owner or occupier of the
lot to which the approval relates, shall comply with the terms and any conditions of that approval.
3.4 Duration of approval
Unless otherwise stated in the form of approval, an approval granted under this local law—
(a) runs with the lot to which it relates;
(b) may be relied upon by any subsequent occupier or owner of the lot; and
(c) may be enforced by the local government against a subsequent occupier or owner of the lot.
PART 4—MISCELLANEOUS
4.1 False or misleading statement
A person shall not make a false or misleading statement in connection with any application,
requirement or request under this local law.
PART 5—NOTICES OF BREACH
5.1 Notices of breach
(1) Where a breach of any provision of this local law has occurred in relation to a fence on a lot, the
local government may give a notice in writing to the owner of that lot.
(2) A notice of breach shall—
(a) specify the provision of this local law which has been breached;
(b) specify the particulars of the breach; and
(c) state that the owner is required to remedy the breach within the time specified in the notice.
(3) Should an owner fail to comply with a notice of breach, the local government may, by its
employees, agents or contractors enter upon the lot to which the notice relates and remedy the
breach, and may recover the expenses of so doing from the owner of the lot in a court of competent
jurisdiction.
(4) The provisions of this clause are subject to section 3.25 and item 12 of Division 1 of Schedule 3.1 of
the Local Government Act 1995 and any entry on to land will be in accordance with Part 3, Division 3
of that Act.
PART 6—OFFENCES
6.1 Offences and penalties
(1) A person who fails to comply with a notice of breach commits an offence and is liable upon
conviction to a penalty of not less than $250 and not exceeding $5 000 and, if the offence is a
continuing offence, to a maximum daily penalty of $500.
(2) A person who fails to comply with or who contravenes any provision of this local law commits an
offence and is liable on conviction to a penalty of not less than $250 and not exceeding $5 000 and, if
the offence is a continuing offence, to a maximum daily penalty of $500.
1350 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, WA 15 February 2017
6.2 Modified penalties
(1) An offence against any provision of this local law is a prescribed offence for the purposes of section
9.16(1) of the Local Government Act 1995.
(2) The amount appearing in the final column of Schedule 1, directly opposite a prescribed offence in
that Schedule, is the modified penalty for that prescribed offence.
(3) For the purpose of guidance only, before giving an infringement notice to a person in respect of the
commission of a prescribed offence, an authorised person should be satisfied that—
(a) commission of the prescribed offence is a relatively minor matter; and
(b) only straightforward issues of law and fact are involved in determining whether the
prescribed offence was committed, and the facts in issue are readily ascertainable.
6.3 Form of notices
For the purposes of this local law—
(a) the form of the infringement notice referred to in sections 9.16 and 9.17 of the Local
Government Act 1995 is to be in the form of Form 2 of Schedule 1 of the Local Government
(Functions and General) Regulations 1996; and
(b) the form of the withdrawal of infringement notice referred to in section 9.20 of the Local
Government Act 1995 is to be in the form of Form 3 in Schedule 1 of the Local Government
(Functions and General) Regulations 1996.
PART 7—OBJECTIONS AND REVIEW
7.1 Objections and review
When the local government makes a decision under this local law as to whether it will—
(a) grant or refuse to grant a person an approval;
(b) cancel an approval; or
(c) give a person notice under clause 5.1.
The provision of Part 9 Division 1 of the Local Government Act 1995, and regulation 33 of the Local
Government (Functions and General) Regulations 1996, apply to that decision.
————
Schedule 1
OFFENCES AND MODIFIED PENALTIES
[clause 6.2(2)]
Item
No.
Clause
No. Nature of offence
Modified
penalties
$
1 2.1(1) Erect a fence that is not a sufficient fence 250
2 2.2 Erect a fence greater than 1 200mm in height within a front
setback area of a Residential Lot without the written consent of
the Building Surveyor
250
3 2.3(a) Erect a gate in a fence not opening into the lot 200
4 2.3(b) Erect a gate in a fence not sliding parallel and inside a fence 200
5 2.6 Failure to maintain a fence in good condition to prevent the fence
becoming dangerous, dilapidated or unsightly
250
6 2.7 Erect or maintain a fence or obstruction of temporary or
permanent nature across a right-of way, public access way or
thoroughfare without approval
250
7 2.9(1) Construct a dividing fence on a Residential, Commercial or
Industrial Lot from pre-used materials without written approval
250
8 2.10(2) Erect a fence using barbed wire or material with spiked or jagged
projections in the fence construction without approval
250
9 2.11(1) Construct, erect or use razor wire in a fence or electrify a fence
without approval
250
10 2.12 Affix, or use, any broken glass in a fence 250
11 3.3 Failure to comply with terms or conditions of approval 250
12 6.1 Failure to comply with notice of breach 250
15 February 2017 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, WA 1351
Schedule 2
SPECIFICATIONS FOR A SUFFICIENT FENCE ON A RESIDENTIAL LOT
[clause 2.1(2)(a)]
Each of the identified categories in this Schedule is a sufficient fence on a Residential Lot and the
fence design being certified by a practicing structural engineer as being suitable for wind loadings
found in Region D Category 2 areas in accordance with AS/NZS 1170.0:2002 Structural design
actions—General principles.
Timber fence
(a) corner posts to be 125mm x 125mm x 2 400mm and intermediate posts to be 125mm x 75mm
x 2 400mm spaced at 2 400mm centres;
(b) corner posts to be strutted 2 ways with 100mm x 50mm x 450mm sole plates and 75mm x
50mm struts;
(c) intermediate posts to be doubled yankee strutted with 150mm x 25mm x 450mm struts;
(d) all posts to have tops with a 60mm weather cut and to be sunk at least 600mm into the
ground;
(e) rails to be 75mm x 50mm with each rail spanning 2 bays of fencing double railed or bolted to
each post with joints staggered;
(f) the fence to be covered with 75mm x 20mm sawn pickets, 1 800mm in height placed 75mm
apart and affixed securely to each rail; and
(g) the height of the fence to be 1 800mm except with respect to the front set back area for which
there is no minimum height but which is subject to clause 7.
Corrugated fence
A fence constructed of corrugated fibre reinforced pressed cement or steel sheeting constructed to
manufacturer’s specifications or which satisfies the following specifications—
(a) a minimum in-ground length of 25 per cent of the total length of the sheet, but in any case
shall have a minimum in-ground depth of 600mm;
(b) the total height and depth of the fence to consist of a single continuous fibre reinforced
cement or steel sheet;
(c) the sheets to be lapped and capped with extruded “snap-fit” type capping in accordance with
the manufacturers written instructions; and
(d) the height of the fence to be 1 800mm except with respect to the front set back area for which
there is no minimum height but which is subject to clause 7.
Brick, stone or concrete fence
A fence constructed of brick, stone or concrete, which satisfies the following requirements and
specifications—
(a) a site classification is to be provided by a professional engineer in accordance with
AS 2870-2011 Residential slabs and footings as amended;
(b) the footing is to be designed in accordance with AS 2870-2011 Residential slabs and footings
as amended;
(c) footings of minimum 225mm x 150mm concrete 15MPa or 300mm x 175mm brick laid in
cement mortar;
(d) fences to be offset a minimum of 200mm at maximum 3 000mm centres or 225mm x 100mm
engaged piers to be provided at maximum 3 000mm centres;
(e) expansion joints in accordance with the manufacturer’s written instructions; and
(f) the height of the fence to be 1,800mm except with respect to the front set back area for which
there is no minimum height but which is subject to clause 2.2.
Composite fence
A composite fence which satisfies the following specifications for the brick construction—
(1) (a) brick piers of minimum 345mm x 345mm at 1 800mm centres bonded to a minimum
height base wall of 514mm;
(b) each pier shall be reinforced with 1 R10 galvanised starting rod 1 500mm high with a
250mm horizontal leg bedded into a 500mm x 200mm concrete footing and set 65mm
above the base of the footing. The top of the footing shall be 1 course (85mm) below
ground level;
(c) the minimum ultimate strength of brickwork shall by 20MPa. Mortar shall be a mix of
1 part cement, 1 part lime and 6 parts sand;
(d) the ground under the footings is to be compacted to 6 blows per 300mm and checked
with a standard falling weight penetrometer; and
(e) control joints in brickwork shall be provided with double piers at a maximum of 6 metre
centres;
or
(2) (a) brick piers of a minimum 345mm x 345mm x 2 700mm centres bonded to the base wall;
and
(b) each pier shall be reinforced with 2 R10 galvanised starting rods as previously
specified.
1352 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, WA 15 February 2017
Schedule 3
SPECIFICATIONS FOR A SUFFICIENT FENCE ON A COMMERCIAL LOT OR AN
INDUSTRIAL LOT
[clause 2.1(2)(b)]
Each of the identified categories in this Schedule, with minimum and maximum specifications where
stated, is a sufficient fence on a Commercial Lot or an Industrial Lot and the fence design being
certified by a practicing structural engineer as being suitable for wind loadings found in Region D
Category 2 areas in accordance with the current edition of AS/NZS 1170.0:2002 Structural design
actions—General principles.
Galvanised or PVC fence and gate
A fence constructed of galvanised or PVC coated non-rail link mesh, chain mesh or steel mesh which
satisfies the following specifications—
(a) corner posts to be minimum 50mm nominal bore x 3.5mm and with footings of a 225mm
diameter x 900mm;
(b) intermediate posts to be minimum 37mm nominal bore x 3.15mm at maximum 3.5m centres
and with footings of a 225mm diameter x 600mm;
(c) struts to be minimum 30mm nominal bore x 3.15mm fitted at each gate and 2 at each corner
post and with footings 225mm x 600mm;
(d) cables to be affixed to the top, centre and bottom of all posts and to consist of 2 or more
3.15mm wires twisted together or single 4mm wire;
(e) non-rail link, chain or steel mesh is to be to a height of 2 000mm on top of which are to be
3 strands of barbed wire carrying the fence to a height of 2 400mm in accordance with the
requirements and standards of the local planning schemes; and
(f) galvanised link mesh wire to be 2 000mm in height and constructed of 50mm mesh 2.5mm
galvanised iron wire and to be strained, neatly secured and laced to the posts and affixed to
cables. Vehicle entry gates shall provide an opening of not less than 3.6m and shall be
constructed of 25mm tubular framework with 1 horizontal and 1 vertical stay constructed of
20mm piping and shall be covered with 50mm x 2.5mm galvanised link mesh strained to
framework. Gates shall be fixed with a drop bolt and locking attachment.
Other fences
(a) a fence of cement sheet or steel sheeting constructed to the minimum specifications referred
to in Schedule 2;
(b) a fence constructed of aluminium sheeting when supported on posts and rails provided that it
is used behind a building line and is of a minimum height of 1 800mm but no greater than
2 400mm; or
(c) a fence of timber, brick, stone or concrete constructed to the minimum specifications referred
to in Schedule 2.
————
Schedule 4
SPECIFICATIONS FOR A SUFFICIENT FENCE ON A RURAL LOT OR
SPECIAL RURAL LOT
[clause 2.1(2)(c)]
Each of the identified categories in this Schedule, with minimum and maximum specifications where
stated is a sufficient fence on a Rural Lot or a Special Rural Lot and the fence design being certified
by a practicing structural engineer as being suitable for wind loadings found in Region D Category 2
areas in accordance with the current edition of AS/NZS 1170.0:2002 Structural design actions—
General principles.
Non-electrified fence
(a) wire shall be high tensile wire and not less than 2.5mm. A minimum of 5 wires shall be used,
generally with the lower wires spaced closer together than the higher wires so as to prevent
smaller stock passing through, and connected to posts in all cases.
(b) posts shall be of indigenous timber or other suitable material including—
(i) timber impregnated with a termite and fungicidal preservative;
(ii) standard iron star pickets; or
(iii) concrete;
(c) cut not less than 1 800mm long x 50mm diameter at small end if round or 125mm x 60mm if
split or sawn.
(d) posts to be set minimum 600mm in the ground and 1 200mm above the ground; and
(e) strainer posts shall be not less than 2 250mm long and 150mm diameter at the small end
(tubular steel to be 50mm in diameter) and shall be cut from indigenous timber or other
suitable material. These shall be placed a minimum of 1 000mm in the ground.
Electrified fence
An electrified fence having 4 wires is a sufficient fence if constructed generally in accordance with a
non-electrified fence.
15 February 2017 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, WA 1353
Schedule 5
LICENCE FOR APPROVED ELECTRIFIED FENCE
[clause 2.11(1)(a)]
This is to certify that (1) ................................................................................................................................
of (2) ...............................................................................................................................................................
is licensed, subject to the conditions set out below, to have and use an electrified fence on
........................................................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................................................
(address)
from ........................................... 20............... and until this licence is transferred or cancelled.
Dated this .......................... day of .............................................. 20............
....................................................................
Chief Executive Officer,
Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley
Conditions of Licence—
The holder of the licence must—
(a) display the licence in a prominent position on the land or premises on which the electrified
fence has been erected;
(b) upon the request of a Building Surveyor produce to him or her the licence;
(c) within 14 days of a change in the ownership or occupation of the land or premises in respect
of which the licence has been granted, notify the Chief Executive Officer in writing of the
details of that change or those changes;
(d) obtain the written consent of the local government prior to the commencement of any
alteration, addition or other work relating to or affecting the electrified fence; and
(e) comply with AS/NZS 3016:2002 Electrical installations—Electric security fences.
Transfer by Endorsement
This licence is transferred to (3) ...................................................................................................................
of (4) ...............................................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................................................
from and including the date of this endorsement.
Dated this .......................... day of .............................................. 20............
....................................................................
Chief Executive Officer,
Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley.
(1) Name
(2) Address
(3) Name
(4) Address
————
Schedule 6
LICENCE FOR APPROVED RAZOR WIRE FENCE
[clause 2.11(1)(b)]
This is to certify that (1) ...............................................................................................................................
of (2) ...............................................................................................................................................................
is licensed, subject to the conditions set out below, to have a fence constructed wholly or partially of
razor wire at
........................................................................................................................................................................
(address)
From ....................................... 20........... and until this licence is transferred or cancelled.
Dated this .......................... day of .............................................. 20............
Chief Executive Officer,
Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley
Conditions of licence—
(a) display the licence in a prominent position on the land or premises on which the fence has
been erected;
(b) upon the request of a Building Surveyor produce to him or her the licence;
(c) within 14 days of a change in the ownership or occupation of the land or premises in respect
of which the licence has been granted, notify the Chief Executive Officer in writing of the
details of that change or those changes; and
(d) obtain the written consent of the local government prior to the commencement of any
alteration, addition or other work relating to or affecting the fence.
1354 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, WA 15 February 2017
Transfer by Endorsement
This licence is transferred to (3) ..................................................................................................................
of (4) ..............................................................................................................................................................
from and including the date of this endorsement.
Dated this .......................... day of .............................................. 20............
....................................................................
Chief Executive Officer
Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley
(1) Name
(2) Address
(3) Name
(4) Address
————
Dated: 31 January 2017.
The Common Seal of the Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley was affixed by authority of a resolution of
the Council in the presence of—
RON YURYEVICH, Commissioner.
CARL ASKEW, Chief Executive Officer.
———————————