The current Residential Design Codes (R-Codes) were prepared by the WAPC following a review of the 1991 Residential Planning Codes of Western Australia. Together with other WAPC policies, the R-Codes guide the WAPC in the assessment of residential subdivision applications. The R-Codes are a fundamental tool for residential planning and development control across the State.

At the time the R-Codes were released in October 2002, the WAPC acknowledged that there would be a need to conduct a review to address problems identified in the initial implementation. The review commenced in 2004. The review process has identified certain shortcomings of the current R-Codes and the need to undertake improvements and additions to some aspects of the provisions.

Submissions closed on Friday 23 June 2006.