Rural Living ZoneRLZ

Last updated: April 2026

Property-specific answer

Want this answered for your nominated property?

General guides only get you so far. Choose the path that fits what you need.

Free AI Chat

Free

Ask any general planning question
Instant, no signup, no cost
Answers from general planning knowledge — won't know your specific zone, overlays or restrictions

Recommended

AI Planning Report

$39

Full zone & overlay analysis for your nominated property
Permit triggers, development potential and feasibility
Unlimited AI follow-up answered using your property's actual controls

Get AI Planning Report — $39

Tip: combine your planning report with a Title Search (from $30) to surface any covenants, easements or Section 173 agreements that might affect your proposal.

↗

Free property search

Check if your property is in the RLZ zone

Search any Victorian address on the map — see the zone, overlays and hazards, and download a free Snapshot PDF.

Purpose

To provide for residential use in a rural environment and to protect and enhance the natural environment and character of the area.

Key Points

Larger residential lots in rural settings
Minimum lot size set by schedule
Allows agriculture and home occupation as secondary uses
Common in peri-urban areas and rural townships

Use Tables — Section 1, 2 & 3

Section 1 — No Permit Needed

Agriculture (most types)
Dwelling (one per lot)
Home occupation
Informal outdoor recreation

Section 2 — Permit Required

Bed and breakfast
Group accommodation
Veterinary centre
Place of worship

Section 3 — Prohibited

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

Related Rural Zones

FZFarming Zone RAZRural Activity Zone GWZGreen Wedge Zone RCZRural Conservation Zone

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum lot size in the RLZ?

The minimum lot size is set in the schedule and varies by municipality. Common minimum lot sizes range from 2 hectares (5 acres) to 8 hectares (20 acres). Check the schedule to your local planning scheme for the specific requirement.

Can I subdivide my RLZ land?

Subdivision requires a planning permit and each new lot must meet the minimum lot size specified in the schedule. The application must also demonstrate that the subdivision protects the rural character and natural environment of the area.

Can I keep animals on RLZ land?

Yes. Agriculture including keeping animals is a Section 1 (as-of-right) use in the RLZ. However, intensive animal husbandry may require a planning permit. Local laws may also regulate the number and type of animals.

Official Planning Provisions

View the full provisions for the Rural Living Zone (Clause 35.03) on the Victorian Planning Provisions website.

Open VPP Clause 35.03

Need a Planning Assessment for the RLZ?

Find out exactly what you can do on a specific property in the Rural Living Zone.

AI Planning Report — $39 Business Use Check — $19

Need a full report or planner-led advice? Book a free consultation