The WA president of the Rebels bikie gang was shot at outside his Balcatta home overnight.

Nickolas Thomas "Nick" Martin escaped serious injury, with the bullet only grazing his elbow.

WA Police Assistant Commissioner Nicholas Anticich said the shooting was yet another concerning incident involving outlaw motorcycle gangs.

It is understood the firearm used was a small-calibre weapon.

The identity of the shooter is not known.

A police spokeswoman said a 41-year-old man was having surgery today for a gunshot wound to his left elbow.

The injuries are not considered to be serious. Investigations are continuing.

It is not known whether the incident is related to the continuing tensions between the Rebels and the fledgling Rock Machine gang.

Incidents between the Rebels and Rock Machine gangs have escalated in recent months, including a firebombing at a Bibra Lake tattoo parlour and a street fight in North Fremantle.

Police allege the discovery and confiscation of 54 units of Powergel explosives at the Rock Machine’s Myaree clubhouse late last month stopped a "serious criminal incident" from occurring.

In an interview with The West Australian earlier this year, Mr Martin said the rivalry between the two clubs had nothing to do with drugs but was about "honour and integrity".

Late last month, Mr Martin was banned from visiting licensed venues across WA for five years.

It is believed the order was issued as a result of a fight in September outside the Library Nightclub on Lake Street, Northbridge.