Green Wedge ZoneGWZ

Last updated: April 2026

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Purpose

To protect metropolitan Melbourne's green wedge areas from inappropriate development while providing for agriculture, conservation, and resource-based uses.

Key Points

Prevents urban development on green wedge land
Allows agriculture, conservation, and limited rural-type uses
Strict controls on subdivision and dwelling construction
Part of Melbourne's urban growth boundary strategy

Use Tables — Section 1, 2 & 3

Section 1 — No Permit Needed

Agriculture (most types)
Dwelling (one per lot, subject to conditions)
Home occupation
Informal outdoor recreation

Section 2 — Permit Required

Group accommodation
Bed and breakfast
Rural industry
Place of worship

Section 3 — Prohibited

Industry (most types)
Office
Retail premises (most types)
Warehouse

Councils Where This Zone Is Common

City of Casey City of Knox City of Manningham City of Kingston City of Wyndham City of Melton City of Hume City of Whittlesea Shire of Nillumbik City of Frankston Mornington Peninsula Shire Shire of Cardinia Yarra Ranges Shire

Related Rural Zones

FZFarming Zone RAZRural Activity Zone RLZRural Living Zone RCZRural Conservation Zone

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a green wedge?

Green wedges are non-urban areas outside Melbourne's Urban Growth Boundary that are protected from suburban development. They provide agricultural land, conservation areas, recreation, and landscape buffers between Melbourne's growth corridors.

Can I build a house in the Green Wedge Zone?

One dwelling per lot is generally permitted, subject to conditions in the schedule (such as minimum lot size). However, subdivision to create additional lots is very restricted, and dwellings must not compromise agricultural or conservation values.

Can the GWZ be rezoned to residential?

Green wedge land is protected by state policy and the Planning and Environment Act. Rezoning requires a planning scheme amendment and is strongly resisted unless the land is within or adjacent to the Urban Growth Boundary. It is very rare for GWZ land to be rezoned.

Official Planning Provisions

View the full provisions for the Green Wedge Zone (Clause 35.04) on the Victorian Planning Provisions website.

Open VPP Clause 35.04

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