What is a planning scheme?

In Victoria, local planning schemes are used to determine when planning permits are required. Local councils are responsible for advising when permits are required and when permits can be issued. The planning schemes help regulate land development and use in line with State government objectives.

A planning scheme is made up of references to State objectives and from State government templates (Victoria Planning Provisions) and Local policy and contains three main parts:

1. maps – including symbols to identify the zones and overlays, and detailed zone and overlay information shown on separate maps
2. written text – explaining what the zone and overlays mean and what planning policies and other provisions apply
3. incorporated documents – documents which are referenced by the scheme, rather than physically included.

 Derived from Structure of a planning scheme by the State of Victoria