What is a planning scheme?

A planning scheme is a legal document that sets out objectives and policies for a local government area. The planning scheme regulates how land is used and developed. To be approved, a planning permit application must be consistent with the local planning scheme. 

The planning scheme is made up of:

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Planning Policy Framework & Municipal Planning Strategy

Planning policies (known as the Planning Policy Framework) contain broad strategies that apply to an area.

The State Government sets the planning policy direction. Council then develop a Local Planning Policy that aligns to the state policy.

The policies can align to an entire state, a smaller region, or a local government area.

Planning policies manage growth and development in Victoria and are applied at a local level in decisions on planning applications. The policies can apply to geographic areas (e.g., parts of a municipality) or by land use themes (e.g., residential, commercial, farming). 
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Zones

Each parcel of land in Victoria has a zone.
 
The zone identifies the purpose of the land and the use (e.g. residential, commercial, open space etc)
Each zone identifies if:

  • you need a planning permit to use or develop the land
  • you need a planning permit to make other changes to the land or build a new structure on the land or;
  • a use is prohibited.
The zone lists the information that must be included with an application.
It also outlines what council must consider when making a planning decision.

 
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Overlays

Land can also have an overlay. An overlay may apply if the land has a special feature or risk factor. For example a heritage building, significant vegetation or bushfire or flood risk.

If an overlay applies, you may need a permit to develop the land.  

An overlay may list information you must included with an application. 

Not every piece of land has an overlay, however many sites within Yarra Ranges have more than one.
 Provisions

Particular provisions

Particular provisions relate to specific types of land use or development.

The most commonly-used provisions are liquor licence, advertising signs and car parking.

These provisions identify if a planning permit is required and what needs to be included in the application. 
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Schedules

Zones and overlays can also have schedules.

Schedules include additional information or requirements more specific to the local area. 

The schedule may identify if:

  • a permit is required
  • what information needs to be include
  • and matters council must consider when making a planning decision. 

Related Information

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