Can one resident decide security gate opening and closing times?

Committee & Governance

Our strata complex has security gates. Can one resident dictate the opening and closing times of the complex’s security gates, or does this require the agreement of all owners?

A single resident cannot decide when the gate should open or close.

Because the security gate is part of the common property, it’s owned collectively by all owners. Under the Strata Titles Act, the strata company (or its elected council) manages common property for everyone’s benefit. Therefore, a single resident cannot decide when the gate should opened or closed.

Any changes to the gate’s timing must be approved by the council of owners (or, if there is no council, then by all owners). Unless a bylaw or agreement grants one resident the right to set gate times, decisions about the gate must be made by the strata company and its council in the interests of all owners.

Comments

Published: 10 Apr 2026

Last Updated: 24 Jul 2026

This post appears in The WA Strata Magazine March 2025

After a free PDF of this Q&A?

Not a member? Join for free

Answer by

Courtney Butters-Kerr

B Strata

Senior Strata Community Manager / SCA Certified (CSCM)

Courtney joined B Strata in early 2015 bringing with her a background in restaurant and healthcare management. Having previously studied Law and Politics at Murdoch University, Courtney has since completed a Certificate IV in Strata Community Management and constantly undertaking further education and professional development to better her knowledge and understanding of all aspects of her role. Courtney is a Level 2 Certified member of SCA WA and has been the finalist for the SCA WA ‘Strata Manager of the Year – Rising Star’ award 2 years running.

As one of our most highly reviewed and well-respected strata managers, Courtney has recently accepted the position of B Strata’s Lead Strata Manager and now oversees that division within the office. This role requires sound knowledge and understanding of the strata industry and legislation, as well as strong leadership and communication skills, which Courtney delivers with friendly professionalism and confidence indicative of her six years’ experience in the industry.