A man accused of running a motor vehicle repair business from his residential address will be summonsed to face court for sentencing on January 17.
Matthew Gray was charged with contravening the provisions of a planning scheme after the City of Mandurah launched legal proceedings against him.
Gray was listed to face Mandurah court on Tuesday, but did not attend the hearing.
He was convicted in his absence.
The court heard the City of Mandurah started receiving complaints about Gray’s Cygnet Court property in November 2015.
The complaints alleged the Wannanup man was running an auto repair business from his home and had up to 20 vehicles parked on his property.
On November 25, 2015, officers from the City attended Gray’s address and spoke to his partner, informing her the property was not to be used to conduct a business.
The City continued receiving complaints, and on February 3, 2016, another officer attended the address and spoke to Gray, who admitted he was working from the property.
The next day, the City advised Gray he was to cease operating from his residence within 14 days, or apply for planning approval.
The City continued to receive complaints from nearby residents, who said Gray was doing repairs on vehicles and spraypainting.
They cited noise concerns and the coming and going of vehicles to impacting on the amenity of the area.
A further inspection in September revealed Gray was still undertaking mechanic work at his home, with 20 vehicles parked on his property as well as car parts, machinery and a large vehicle hoist.
On October 14 Gray was advised he would face prosecution.
On November 10 the City launched prosecution against Gray.
The maximum penalty for the charge is $200,000.
Magistrate Vivien Edwards delayed sentencing so Gray could appear before the court.