National parks and other conservation reserves in Western Australia protect our most significant landscapes, plants and animals. Our parks also protect social, cultural, and spiritual values and are important community assets. The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, through the Parks and Wildlife Service, manages these special places on behalf of the community. The Department encourages responsible, safe and sustainable access and use of our parks and reserves.
Under the Conservation and Land Management Act 1984 and Conservation and Land Management Regulations 2002, permission is required to undertake certain activities that would otherwise be against the law. This permission is referred to as ‘lawful authority.’ The Department needs to assess the potential impacts of any proposed activity or event on an area and on other visitors to that area. These measures are put in place to protect the values of our precious parks and reserves.
To apply for permission, consider first whether the activity or event you propose is commercial.
Commercial events
A commercial activity or event requires a different authority, usually a licence, for which payment of charges and fees may apply.
A separate application and assessment process is required for commercial activities or events.
Non-commercial activities or events
Activities and events that are undertaken without intent of gaining profit, reward, or any consideration other than the recovery of costs are considered non-commercial events. School activities, club events and weddings may be examples of non-commercial activities/events.
Non-commercial activities/events that require lawful authority from the department include (but are not limited to):
- camping in areas that are not designated camping areas
- riding a bicycle other than on a road or a bicycle path
- driving or using a vehicle other than on a road
- landing or taking off in an aircraft (including helicopters)
- using a firearm
- organising or conducting any event involving cross country running, orienteering, rogaining, cross country navigation exercises or equestrian events
- organising or holding an event which is likely to involve or involves the attendance of more than 100 persons, and if there is a cost for attendees, revenue does not exceed cost recovery of the event.
To apply for permission to conduct a non-commercial activity/event, please complete the Lawful authority form to conduct non-commercial activities on CALM Act land a minimum of eight weeks before the event and submit to the local Parks and Wildlife Service office in the region where you wish to conduct the activity/event.
Commercial activity on lands and water managed by DBCA
Permission is required to conduct any commercial activity on lands and water managed by DBCA.
Visit Commercial Activities on the DBCA website for information about conducting commercial activities, including licensing, insurance and filming, in these areas.
Commercial operator online bookings
School holiday and community activities
Nearer to Nature schools and community programs provide opportunities for schools, families, community groups and overseas and interstate visitors to take part in fun, hands-on activities in the natural environment. Find out what's happening in Perth and the South West.
If you're planning an excursion or outdoor education activity, find out all you need to know about group bookings and approvals at Outdoor in education parks and reserves.