Guideline: Native vegetation referrals

Overview

The Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (the department) released the draft Guideline: Native vegetation referrals on 30 June 2021 for public consultation for one (1) month. The consultation period ended on 30 July 2021. 

This guideline was developed to inform stakeholders about the new clearing referrals process. Prospective applicants will be able to refer proposed clearing with very low environmental impacts to the relevant department, for a decision on whether a clearing permit is required. The new process will be introduced when amendments to the Environmental Protection Act 1986 (the EP Act) take effect in the second half of 2021.

It provides an overview of the key factors that the department considers when assessing a proposed clearing referral and determining if a clearing permit is or is not required.

The public consultation period is now closed.

The finalised Guideline: Native vegetation clearing referrals and a consultation summary report have now been published on the WA Government website.