Steps in the planning process

The steps below give a rough outline of the planning process. There are two types of planning applications; standard and VicSmart. No two applications are the same and the timeframes below are a guide to how long it could take at each stage in the process.

A complete, high-quality application can reduce the likelihood of receiving a request for more information later and reduce the application timeframe.

 

 

Standard planning permit process

Step 1.Pre-application (1-90 days)

Step 2.Lodgement (1-28 days)

Make sure you have the information required (forms, fees, plans, cover letter and any required reports).  Once lodged, we will start assessing your application. If external referrals are needed, it may take longer to assess your application.

Step 3.Request for further information (will be issued by day 28)

We may ask for further information (RFI) if information is not provided, or if more information is required to make a decision. We will give you a deadline to provide the information required.

While Council sets a deadline, the time taken to gather information and respond to Council is with the applicant.

If further information is not requested, applications will go straight to step 5.

Step 4.Request for further information response (7-21 days)

The additional information will be assessed. A second request for information may be issued if the first response doesn’t properly respond to all issues.  

Step 5.Public notice (14-21 days)

We will arrange advertising, if it is required. If objections are received, we will talk to everyone involved.

Step 6.Assessment and decision (14-90 days)

We will assess your application. If a decision is to be made by Council, the application process may take longer.

Step 7.Issue decision

At the end of the assessment, we will either:

  • Issue a permit
  • Issue a ‘notice of decision to grant a permit’. This occurs if any objections have been submitted to the application.* 
  • Refuse a permit

* Objectors have 28 days to lodge an appeal with VCAT. If no VCAT appeals are lodged, Council will issue a planning permit.

Step 8.Continue with other permits that may be required

Once a decision is issued, you can commence the application for process for other permits that may be required (building, siting consent, drainage).

VicSmart planning process

VicSmart is a fast track process for some common application types. Some applications that may be eligible for VicSmart are:

  • Minor building and works in a zone or overlay
  • Tree removal and lopping of a single tree
  • Some minor subdivision
  • Small advertising signs
  • Car parking reductions of less than 5 spaces.

You can find out more at VicSmart, or read the VicSmart Applicant's guide for specific information on the above topics

Step 1.Preapplication (0-10 days)

Step 2.Lodgement and initial assessment

Ensure you have the required application information (forms, fees, plans, cover letter and any required reports). 

Once lodged, we will assess your application. If external referrals are required, timeframes may be extended. Please note, it is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that all relevant authorities have reviewed and provided consent to the application.

Step 3.Assessment and decision

We assess the application and makes a decision.

If required, we may request further information (RFI). An RFI can be made within 5 days of receiving the VicSmart application. Where an RFI is made, the timeline for the VicSmart application may extend, depending on the quality of the information provided in your response.

Step 4.Issue decision

At the end of the assessment, if appropriate, we will issue a permit.

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