Appeal Infringement Notices for Signs - Perth

Signs and Advertising Western Australia 4 Minutes Read · published February 11, 2026 Flag of Western Australia

In Perth, Western Australia, local signage and advertising on public land and some private frontages are regulated by the City of Perth's local laws and approval processes. This guide explains how to respond if you receive an infringement notice for signs, who enforces the rules, what sanctions may apply, and the practical steps to seek review or appeal.

Overview of the controlling rules

The primary instrument for street signage and advertising is the City of Perth local laws covering signs and advertising; check the City of Perth local laws and related signage policy for the exact provisions and any application forms [1].

Penalties & Enforcement

The City of Perth and its authorised Rangers/Compliance officers are typically responsible for issuing infringement notices for unauthorised signs, unsafe displays or signs that breach size, location or maintenance rules. Contact and enforcement protocols are managed by the City’s Ranger and compliance teams [2].

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page [1].
  • Escalation: whether a first, repeat or continuing offence attracts higher penalties is not specified on the cited page [1].
  • Appeal / review routes: the infringement notice will set out how to elect for a court hearing or request internal review; specific time limits for lodging an appeal are not specified on the cited page and will be shown on the notice itself [1].
  • Non-monetary sanctions: may include removal orders to dismantle or remove signage, compliance notices, seizure of unlawfully erected signs and court action to enforce orders; the local laws reference powers to require removal or compliance but specific remedies and processes are set out in the local law text [1].
  • Enforcer and complaint pathway: Ranger and Compliance Services (City of Perth) handle inspections, complaints and infringement administration; use the City’s official contact page to report or seek clarification [2].
If you receive an infringement notice, read the fine notice carefully because it contains the formal steps and deadlines to contest or pay.

Applications & Forms

The City publishes permit or approval forms for advertising and signage on its local laws and permits pages; the exact form name, application fee and lodgement method are listed on the City website or the specific signage policy page [1]. If no form is shown for a particular sign type, the City will note whether formal approval is required or if an exemption applies.

Common violations and typical outcomes

  • Unauthorised roadside A-frames or portable signs: likely subject to infringement or removal order.
  • Billboards or banners without approval: enforcement action and possible fines or removal.
  • Unsafe or poorly maintained signs that present a hazard: immediate compliance notices or removal.
Seek a permit before installing new signage to avoid enforcement action.

How enforcement works in practice

Rangers inspect reported or visible breaches, issue an infringement notice or compliance notice depending on the breach, and provide the recipient with options to pay, request an internal review or elect to have the matter heard in court if the notice allows. For practical help, contact the City’s Ranger and Compliance team [2].

Action steps if you receive an infringement notice for a sign

  • Read the notice immediately and note the deadline for payment or how to request a review.
  • Gather evidence: photos, permits, correspondence and any trade or contractor details.
  • Decide whether to pay, request an internal review with the City, or elect court jurisdiction as directed on the notice.
  • Contact Ranger and Compliance Services for clarification or to report corrective action taken [2].

FAQ

Can I appeal an infringement notice for a sign?
You can follow the appeal or review steps printed on the notice; commonly this means requesting an internal review with the issuing office or electing to have the matter heard in court as stated on the notice.
How long do I have to respond to an infringement?
Time limits are shown on the infringement notice itself; the City’s local laws page does not publish a single universal deadline and the notice should be checked for the specific time frame [1].
Do I need a permit for a temporary promotional sign?
Many temporary signs require a permit or the owner must comply with exemption rules; check the City’s permits and signage guidance for the specific size, location and duration rules [1].

How-To

  1. Carefully read the infringement notice and note the stated options and deadlines.
  2. Collect supporting evidence such as photos, dates of installation and any permit documents.
  3. Contact the City’s Ranger and Compliance Services to request an internal review or clarification [2].
  4. If you disagree with the outcome, follow the notice directions to elect court jurisdiction or seek a formal hearing where available.

Key Takeaways

  • Check permit requirements before installing signage to avoid fines.
  • Keep records and photos to support any review or appeal.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Perth - Local laws and signage guidance
  2. [2] City of Perth - Ranger and compliance services

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