Planning Permits in City of Port Phillip

Port Phillip is a densely populated inner-city municipality stretching along the bay from Port Melbourne to Elwood. The area has a diverse built form ranging from heritage cottages to modern apartment towers.

Key Suburbs

St Kilda South Melbourne Albert Park Port Melbourne Elwood Balaclava Middle Park

Area Statistics

113,093

Population

60,765

Dwellings

Median Age

Source: ABS Census 2021

Planning Characteristics

Significant development pressure in Fishermans Bend (DPO area) with heights up to 40 storeys. Heritage Overlay protects St Kilda, Albert Park, and South Melbourne precincts. DDO controls along major corridors like Fitzroy Street and Acland Street.

Common Planning Zones

GRZGeneral Residential Zone

Local Schedule VPP Clause 32.08

RGZResidential Growth Zone

Local Schedule VPP Clause 32.07

MUZMixed Use Zone

Local Schedule VPP Clause 32.04

C1ZCommercial 1 Zone

Local Schedule VPP Clause 34.01

C2ZCommercial 2 Zone

Local Schedule VPP Clause 34.02

Common Planning Overlays

HOHeritage Overlay

Local Schedule VPP Clause 43.01

DDODesign and Development Overlay

Local Schedule VPP Clause 43.02

DPODevelopment Plan Overlay

Local Schedule VPP Clause 43.04

EAOEnvironmental Audit Overlay

Local Schedule VPP Clause 45.03

SBOSpecial Building Overlay

Local Schedule VPP Clause 43.03

Planning Scheme

View the full Port Phillip planning scheme on the Victorian Government planning scheme viewer.

Open Planning Scheme Viewer

City of Port Phillip Planning & Building

Objecting to a development in City of Port Phillip

Worried about a development application in City of Port Phillip? While an application is on public notice or exhibition, anyone affected can lodge an objection — a formal submission or representation to the council — putting your planning concerns on the record before the decision is made. Our Victoria guide walks through your rights, what counts as a valid planning ground, and the timeframes; and if a decision goes the wrong way, how to appeal it at the tribunal.

How to object in Victoria →How to appeal a decision →Find an application — City of Port Phillip planning page

Not sure if your concerns count? Run the free Objection Grounds Check for an instant read of which are valid planning grounds — then turn it into a formal objection from $99.

Need Help with a Planning Permit in Port Phillip?

Get a free consultation with an experienced town planning consultant who knows the Port Phillip planning scheme.

Get Free Consultation

Prefer to brief a consultant directly? Our consulting practice Perry Town Planning handles permit applications, VCAT appeals, expert evidence and protection works notices (Form 7 / Form 8) in Port Phillip — director-led on every matter.