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Navigate the Planning System with Confidence

Free planning guides, interactive tools, and AI-powered assistance to help you understand permits, zones, and overlays. Find a qualified planning consultant when you need expert help.

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Property Due Diligence Report

Before you invest in architects and consultants, understand exactly what planning controls apply to your property. Our detailed report covers zones, overlays, title restrictions, and development feasibility.

  • Planning zone and overlay analysis
  • Title and plan restriction search
  • Development feasibility assessment
  • Professional recommendations
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For Property Buyers

Know Before You Bid

Thinking of buying a property for development? Find out how many dwellings can fit, whether the numbers stack up, and how hard the permit will be — all before auction day.

  • Dwelling yield estimate with planning controls
  • Financial feasibility with sensitivity analysis
  • Permit difficulty and timeline assessment
Try Interactive SampleFrom $19/search

Planning Information & Tools

Everything you need to understand the planning controls that apply to your property

Do I Need a Planning Permit?

Answer a few simple questions to find out if your project needs a planning permit.

Planning Zones Explained

Understand what your property's zone means for development. Covers residential, commercial, and industrial zones.

Planning Overlays Guide

Heritage, environmental, flood, bushfire and design overlays explained. Know what extra controls apply to your land.

Common Permit Types

From new dwellings to subdivisions, change of use to signage. Understand what type of permit you need and the process involved.

How Town Planning Online Helps You

Understand Before You Start

Use our free guides and tools to learn what planning rules apply to your property before you spend a dollar.

Get Instant Answers

Our AI planning assistant can answer your questions about permits, zones, overlays, and the application process — available 24/7.

Know When You Need a Professional

Not every project needs a consultant. Our tools help you understand when professional help will save you time and money.

Find the Right Consultant

When you do need expert help, we connect you with qualified planning consultants who specialise in your type of project.

Understanding Your Property Title

Before applying for a planning permit, it's essential to understand your property title. Easements, covenants, and restrictions on title can significantly affect what you can build.

A title search reveals the legal boundaries of your property, any encumbrances, and ownership details. This information is critical for architects and planners preparing your application.

Search property titles at LandTitles.com.au

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about planning permits

What is a planning permit in Victoria?
A planning permit is a legal document issued by your local council that allows you to use or develop land in a particular way. It is required under the Planning and Environment Act 1987 when the planning scheme specifies that a permit is needed for the proposed use or development.
How long does a planning permit take in Victoria?
The statutory timeframe for a council to decide on a planning application is 60 days for most applications. However, complex applications or those requiring referral to other authorities can take longer. If your application is advertised and receives objections, the process typically takes 3-6 months.
How much does a planning permit cost?
Planning permit application fees in Victoria are set by the state government and vary based on the estimated cost of development. As of 2024, fees range from approximately $200 for minor works to several thousand dollars for major developments. Council may also charge additional fees for advertising and engineering assessments.
Can I object to a planning application?
Yes. If a planning application is advertised (either by mail or a sign on the property), any person who may be affected by the proposal can lodge an objection with council during the notice period, which is typically 14 days. If your objection is not resolved and the permit is granted, you may have the right to appeal to VCAT (Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal).
What is the difference between a planning permit and a building permit?
A planning permit controls how land is used and developed (e.g., setbacks, height, land use). A building permit ensures the building complies with the Building Code of Australia (structural integrity, fire safety, accessibility). You may need both for your project, and they are assessed by different authorities.
What happens if I build without a planning permit?
Building without a required planning permit is an offence under the Planning and Environment Act 1987. Council can issue an enforcement order requiring you to stop work, remove the building, or apply for a retrospective permit. Penalties can apply, and selling a property with unauthorised works can create significant legal issues.

Need Help With Your Planning Project?

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