Learn how to apply
On this page:
Step 1: Talk to your council planner
Before you start you should discuss your proposal with your local council's planning department to confirm that a permit is required.
The planning officer will also be able to advise you on additional requirements for your application. These depend on the proposal, e.g. if it involves residential development, subdivision or native vegetation. For information on these requirements see More information about permits.
In some cases the Minister for Planning is responsible for issuing planning permits – you can find out more in Ministerial Permits.
After you lodge the application, the planning officer will check it and advise you (in writing) within a reasonable time if further information is required. If they do, you should provide the information promptly otherwise the application won't be processed further.
Step 2: Talk to your neighbours
Talk to your neighbours so you are aware of their concerns. Taking the time to talk to them at this early stage may save time later if changes can be made to the plans that address their concerns. Most people appreciate the opportunity to discuss plans before the formal notice process commences, although it will not always be possible to make changes that satisfy everybody.
Step 3: Get professional advice
Consider getting professional advice. Planning assessment and decision-making are sophisticated processes that involve concepts such as respecting neighbourhood character, achieving good urban design outcomes, protecting reasonable amenity and enhancing heritage significance. Council and the community are looking for proposals that will meet their expectations. Getting the right professional advice at the beginning will help develop your ideas so you meet council’s expectations and your objectives.
Step 4: Understand the process
The Planning and Environment Act 1987 establishes the planning permit application process. The diagram below sets out the steps to follow in applying for a planning permit.
More details about the process are available in Preparing an Application.
Step 5: Prepare your application
Find out the steps involved and the information required to prepare your application.
More information on preparing your application
More information
Planning practice and advisory notes relate to some types of permit proposals. They cover proposals such as applications in rural zones, where flood provisions apply and for dwellings in residential zones.
Planning: a Short Guide provides more detailed information about the permit and review processes for occasional users of the planning system.
Chapter 3 of Using Victoria's Planning System contains a more detailed guide to the process. It is designed to help professional planners, officers of authorities, councillors, students, applicants and people affected by planning proposals.