How long do planning permit applications for signage take?

Like any regular planning application, signage can take 3 – 5 months. Many councils will be able to turn simple applications that provide all of the necessary information around quicker. Timelines are extended when applications require advertising or referral to The Department of Transport and Planning.

When are applications referred to the Department of Transport and Planning?

Clause 52.05-3 specifies that a planning application for an animated or electronic sign, within 60 metres of a freeway or arterial road (Road Management Act 2004) must be referred to the Department of Transport and Planning for assessment. The department will usually provide comments within 28 days. For more information on Department of Transport and Planning Referrals, see the government website Signs and planning permits.

Can planning applications for signage be fast-tracked?

Possibly. VicSmart which applies to every local planning scheme includes provisions to assess applications in 10 business days, provided the proposed sign meets certain conditions. A sign will be eligible for VicSmart if the proposal is to:

Construct or put up for display a sign in an industrial zone, commercial zone, Special Use Zone, Comprehensive Development Zone, Docklands Zone, Priority Development Zone or Activity Centre Zone if:

• • • • The sign is not within 30 metres of land (not a road) which is in a residential zone.
      • The sign is not a pole sign, a sky sign, a reflective sign, internally illuminated sign, floodlit sign, electronic sign or animated sign.
      • The display area of the sign does not exceed 10 square metres.

There’s more information on The Complete VicSmart Guide wesite regarding how to display a sign in a commercial, industrial or special purpose zone.