Navigating Land Use Planning for Beverage Production

Are you thinking about starting a business that involves producing beverages, such as craft beer or juices? If so, understanding the land use planning guidelines for beverage production in Western Australia is crucial. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the process and make informed decisions.

What is Beverage Production?

Beverage production involves the creation of drinks for human consumption, including both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

Why Are Specific Considerations Necessary?

Beverage production requires a reliable drinking water supply and creates trade waste, both of which must be managed properly. Additionally, production sites may have complementary features such as cellar doors, taverns, or event spaces, which complicate the approval process for land use.

Key Land Use Planning Considerations

1. Scale of Your Operation

The size of your beverage production operation will determine the land that’s suitable, the required approvals, and any ongoing obligations. For instance, a small craft brewery will have different needs than a large industrial brewery.

It’s also essential to consider any future expansion plans. If you plan to scale your operation, including these details in your initial development approval application can save time and effort later, preventing the need for new approvals and avoiding potential legal issues.

2. Access to Water

A reliable drinking water supply is a must for beverage production. If you’re unable to source water from a licensed provider like the Water Corporation, you may consider harvesting rainwater or using surface and/or groundwater. However, this water will need to be treated to meet the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines.

Tip: If you plan to use groundwater or surface water, check with the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER) to see if you need a licence.

3. Wastewater Management

There are two types of wastewater to manage: trade waste and domestic waste. These need to be handled by separate systems.

• Trade Waste: This comes from the beverage production process, including by-products. Options for managing trade waste include:
  • Treating it for reuse within the production process.
  • Disposing of it via a Water Corporation sewer system with a trade waste permit.
  • Onsite treatment and disposal.
  • Using offsite licensed waste facilities, though this may only be a temporary option in some areas.

The appropriate waste disposal method will depend on factors like your land size, production volume, and location. These options often require additional licences or permits.

• Domestic Waste: This comes from kitchens, bathrooms, and toilets. If you don’t have access to a Water Corporation sewer system, you may need to seek approval for an onsite waste system from your local government or the Department of Health.

4. Other Important Considerations

When planning for beverage production, consider the following:

• Land Use: Will you add other services, such as a pub or event hosting, or focus solely on beverage production? Identifying all activities before applying for approval is essential.
• Location: Does the zoning support your intended use? Ensure there’s enough developable land for waste management, and that your site meets environmental, bushfire, and distance requirements.
• Transport and Parking: How many vehicles will need access to the site, and how often? Planning for parking and heavy vehicle access is important for operational efficiency.

Tip: Land use planning can be complex, so it’s wise to consult with experts, such as local government authorities, before submitting your application.

Other Approvals You Might Need

In addition to local government approval, you may need to seek approvals from other agencies depending on your operation’s scale. Here’s a breakdown of what might be required:

• Local Government: Your local government will be your first point of contact for approvals. They can guide you on the necessary permits and help with technical details in your application.

Tip: Don’t start construction until you’ve obtained the required approvals and permits from your local government. Also, if you plan to sell food or offer meals, you must register with them.

• Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER), Department of Health, and Water Corporation: Depending on your plans, you may need to submit applications for:
  • Water use or groundwater extraction.
  • Onsite domestic and trade waste management.
  • Offsite trade waste disposal.

By understanding these requirements and planning ahead, you can ensure your beverage production business meets all the necessary guidelines and operates smoothly.