Do I need to get the plans done professionally?

Professionally prepared plans are preferable but not mandatory. Applicants usually have plans professionally drawn up by an architect or draftsperson to ensure plans display all of the information requirements of the permit application – but if you have some drafting skills, you can do your own.

It’s important to know that the plans will be stamped and form part of the planning permit.

It is also helpful to provide photographs that show the context to your application in relation to the surrounding area. Photos cannot usually be used as a substitute for plans. For VicSmart applications, most councils allow the following exceptions:

• • an annotated aerial photo showing the location of a tree to be remove showing the relevant dimensions
  • an annotated aerial photo showing the location of a shed to be constructed showing the relevant dimensions
  • an annotated elevation photo and art work for signage showing the relevant dimensions
  • an annotated elevation photo and associated colour schedule to show areas to be painted for external painting in a heritage overlay.
  • annotated aerial and elevation photos to show the location of proposed solar panels

The specifc information requirements for a plan are listed in the government checklists and in The Complete VicSmart Guide. Here are examples of different types of drafted application plans, that will give you an indication of what is required:

• • A house/dwelling and carport site plan
  • A house/dwelling floor plan
  • A house/dwelling elevation plan
  • A signage plan – site and elevation
  • Tree removal – site plan

If you have the skills to draw the plan yourself, ensure that your drawing shows all of the required information and is clear and drawn to scale. If you use this guide, you can get examples of annotated photographs and hand drawn plans to copy on request.

 Source: What to include in your planning permit application by the Yarra Ranges Councils