Do I need to certify a scale used only for pricing by weight?

Yes, scales used to sell goods by weight are generally required to be verified and certified for trade; check the state regulator guidance for details.

How often must trade scales be re-verified?

Re-verification intervals depend on use and risk; the regulator or verification body will advise the required frequency.

Who can perform a verification inspection?

Authorised inspectors or accredited verification agents appointed or recognised by the state regulator.

Weights & Measures Certification - Perth WA

Business and Consumer Protection Western Australia 3 Minutes Read · published February 11, 2026

Perth, Western Australia businesses that use scales for trade must follow state legal metrology rules to ensure accuracy, consumer protection and compliance with trading laws. This guide explains the typical process to certify or verify scales used in shops, markets and mobile trade in Perth, identifies the enforcing authority and inspections pathway, and explains common compliance issues and remedies. Use the links and steps below to prepare your equipment, lodge applications or arrange an inspection with the responsible agency.^[1]

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement for non-compliant weighing equipment in Perth is managed under Western Australian weights and measures legislation and administered by the state consumer protection/regulatory agency. Where exact penalty figures or graduated fines are not shown on the official guidance pages, this guide states that they are "not specified on the cited page" and points to the controlling instrument for further detail.^[2]

Fines: not specified on the cited page for specific amounts; check the primary legislation or enforcement notices for monetary penalties.
Escalation: first, repeat and continuing offences are addressed in the legislation or by enforcement discretion; specific ranges are not specified on the cited guidance page.
Non-monetary sanctions: orders to repair, recalibrate or remove equipment from trade; seizure or prohibition notices; proceedings in court where required.
Enforcer: the Western Australia consumer protection/regulatory agency (Business and Consumer Protection or its successor) handles inspections, certifications and complaints. Contact details are on the official pages in Resources below.
Appeals and review: appeal routes and time limits are set out in the legislation and administrative review provisions; specific statutory time limits are not specified on the cited guidance page.

If a fine or specific penalty is required for a defence or appeal, refer to the Act or contact the regulator immediately.

Applications & Forms

The state regulator publishes guidance and any required application forms for verification, pattern approval or certification of trade weighing instruments. If no specific local council form is required, submit applications to the state agency or an authorised verifier as instructed on the regulator page.

Name/number: specific forms or application titles are published on the regulator website; if a form number is not shown, it is not specified on the cited page.
Fees: fees for verification, certification or re-certification are set by the regulator or authorised verifiers; where an amount is not published on the guidance page it is not specified on the cited page.
Submission: typically by email, online portal or to an authorised verifier — follow instructions on the official regulator page.

Common Violations

Using unverified or uncertified scales for trade.
Missing verification stickers, out-of-date calibration or tampered seals.
Incorrect display of unit measures or misleading tare practices.

Keep certification records and verification stickers on site for inspection.

How to Arrange Inspection and Certification

Arrange inspection through the authorised state regulator or an accredited verifier. Typical steps include preparing the scale, arranging access, paying any inspection fee and keeping copies of the verification certificate or tag once issued.

FAQ

Do I need to certify a scale used only for pricing by weight?: Yes, scales used to sell goods by weight are generally required to be verified and certified for trade; check the state regulator guidance for details.
How often must trade scales be re-verified?: Re-verification intervals depend on use and risk; the regulator or verification body will advise the required frequency.
Who can perform a verification inspection?: Authorised inspectors or accredited verification agents appointed or recognised by the state regulator.

How-To

Confirm whether your scale is used for trade and requires certification.
Check the regulator guidance and download any application or guidance documents from the official site.
Contact an authorised verifier or the state regulator to arrange inspection and any fees.
Prepare the scale, calibration records and premises for inspection on the scheduled date.
Receive verification, attach the certification tag, and retain the issued certificate as proof of compliance.
If you disagree with enforcement action, follow the appeal/review steps set out in the legislation and contact the regulator for procedural guidance.

Key Takeaways

Scales used in trade in Perth must meet state legal metrology requirements.
Use an authorised verifier and keep certification records on site.