About the planning process

What is the difference between a building permit and a planning permit?

The planning process determines whether the use or development of land is appropriate. For example whether a subdivision is allowed in a particular area.

The building permit process ensures what you are building is safe and meets the relevant standards and regulations. 

In some cases, you may need both.

Steps in the planning process

Step 1.Application lodged

Your application has been received and accepted. Waiting payment, once paid it can then be allocated to a planner.

Step 2.Under Assessment

Your application is being assessed to determine if enough information has been provided (including all reports and details on plans). If no further information is needed, the application will go straight to advertising.

Step 3.Awaiting further information

We’re waiting for more information from the applicant. The applicant will be given a timeframe to send us the information. This can be extended if necessary.

Step 4.Assessment of further information (if necessary)

The planer will assess the information to make sure all the necessary information has been received.

Step 5.Application on advertising

The application is now being advertised. Letters have been sent to notify surrounding properties of the proposal. The plans are now available on track for everyone to view and make their submissions.

Step 6.Final Assessment

The Planner will review submissions, review key issues and discuss conditions.

Step 7.Decision preparation

The planner will write the report, get it checked and finalise the report.

Step 8.Decision

Depending on the decision you may see the following:

  • Decided (Approved) - The application has been approved and the permit and endorsed plans are available on Track.
  • Decided (Amended plans required) - The planning permit has been approved and is available on Track, however amended plans will need to be provided for endorsement.
  • Decided (Refused) - The proposal has been refused by Council.
  • Decided (No permit required) - The application has been assessed and a permit is not required.

Step 9.Notice of decision (If applicable)

A notice of decision is issued to everyone who objected. If approved by Council, an no appeals are lodged to VCAT within 28 days, a permit will be issued. If an appeal is made, the proposal must go to VCAT.

Step 10.VCAT appeal in progress (If applicable)

If an appeal has been lodged with VCAT, the following may occur:

  • Decided - Refused by VCAT - VCAT have made the final decision to refuse the proposal.
  • Decided - VCAT approved - VCAT have made the final decision to approve the proposal.
  • Decided - VCAT approved, amended plans required - The proposal has been approved, however amended plans are required for endorsement.

Steps in the planning process

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