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Use of land refers to using land for a particular purpose (such as a dwelling or a shop) and may not involve building anything. Development includes the construction, alteration or demolition of a building or works and the subdivision or consolidation of land.
In some zones, the development of land and the proposed new use both require a permit. For example, in the Mixed Use Zone, a permit is required to construct a building and to use a building for an office. In other zones, the use may not require a permit, but a permit may be required to construct the building (the development) for the use. In this situation, council can only consider the effects of the new building (such as height, visual bulk and so on) and not the change in the use of the land.
Planning permits also impact way things look. They determine for instance, where buildings are located in relation to the street, the proximity of buildings and building height. They can protect natural and built form heritage and can dictate small things like how signage is displayed or the colour of a shed.
Planning permits also contribute to how places feel. They are used to regulate the size and type of development, whether there are trees and vegetation, and they can ensure there are bike racks and electric charging stations. They carry out strategic objectives to ensure services are available, how people are able to move between places, and can affect what’s within walking distance.
Derived from: Guide to Victoria’s Planning System by the Department of Transport and Planning