In Victoria, planning permits are how the State government and local councils regulate the use and development of land. This is done via local planning schemes, which set out what does and doesn’t require a planning permit. 

A planning permit is a legal document that has two parts – the written component of the permit, outlining what is permitted and the conditions of development, as well as the endorsed plans (“approved” or “stamped” plans), that development must follow.

In most circumstances, planning permits are attached to the land and subject to time limits. View an example of a planning permit and endorsed plans.

If you want written advice from a Town Planning Consultant regarding whether a proposal needs a planning permit or is exempt, or, if you need a permit, what the planning application requirements are, then you are ready to start using Victorian Smart Planning – Permit Application Services:

It’s the simplest way to get a planning permit.

Planning permits and building permits

A planning permit should not be confused with a building permit.

Planning permits relate to the use and development of land under the Planning and Environment Act 1987. They are usually issued by Local Councils under the local planning scheme.

Building permits relate to construction and ensure that building work complies with the Building Act 1993 (the Act) and Building Regulations 2006 (the Regulations) and is overseen by Building Surveyors (private and some Municipal).

Find out more about planning permits and building permits.

When is a planning permit required?

A planning permit is required if you are proposing to do something that the local planning scheme says you need a permit for. In planning terms, the planning scheme has “permit triggers”, which are conditions that specify when a permit is or isn’t required.

Planning permits are commonly required for a change of use of the land, when construction or demolition are proposed, or when there is a change to the natural environment, such as the removal of vegetation.

Find out more about when a planning permit is required.

How do you get a planning permit in Victoria?

Local council planning departments accept and assess planning applications and issue planning permits. Empowered by the State government, the Planning and Environment Act and the Victoria Planning Provisions, local councils are called the Responsible Authorities, and given the responsibility for producing local planning schemes, as well as assessing the permit applications required by them.

Find out more about how to apply for a planning permit in Victoria.