If your project involves clearing, earthworks or ground disturbance in Western Australia, you are likely required to comply with Section 40 of the Wildlife Conservation Act 1950. This legislation protects native fauna from being taken, disturbed or interfered with during development activities — and non-compliance can result in significant penalties and project delays.
At Fauna Services, we specialise in helping mining companies, construction contractors and land developers meet their Section 40 obligations quickly, safely and cost-effectively across all of Western Australia’s bioregions.
What is a Section 40 Permit?
A Section 40 permit (also referred to as a fauna taking licence) is issued by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) and authorises the lawful taking, disturbing or relocating of native fauna in connection with a development or land-clearing project. Without this permit, any interference with native wildlife — including relocating animals from a clearing site — is illegal under Western Australian law.
When Do You Need Section 40 Compliance?
Section 40 compliance is required for a wide range of projects including:
- Mining exploration and extraction
- Road and infrastructure construction
- Residential and commercial land development
- Agricultural clearing
- Renewable energy projects
- Any activity involving vegetation clearing where native fauna may be present
How Fauna Services Can Help
Our team of licensed fauna spotter catchers and zoologists are experienced in all aspects of Section 40 compliance in Western Australia. We provide:
- Pre-clearance fauna surveys — identifying conservation significant species and fauna habitat prior to clearing
- Fauna spotting catching (FSC) — on-site licensed spotter catchers during all clearing and earthworks activities
- Fauna relocation — safe, humane capture and translocation of native animals away from disturbance zones
- Chemical capture — expert immobilisation of wildlife where standard capture methods are not feasible
- Compliance documentation — detailed capture logs, GPS records and species reports suitable for regulatory submission
Operating Across Western Australia
Fauna Services operates across all of Western Australia’s diverse bioregions — from the Pilbara and Kimberley in the north to the Swan Coastal Plain and Great Southern in the south. We mobilise rapidly to remote mine sites and regional projects, and work closely with Traditional Owners, regulatory bodies and project managers to ensure smooth, compliant operations.
Get Section 40 Compliant Today
Don’t let fauna compliance be a bottleneck for your project. Contact Fauna Services today to discuss your Section 40 requirements and get a tailored solution for your site.
Email us at edward@fauna.au or call 0401 189 834.