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:
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).
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.
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.
Zones and overlays can also have schedules.
Schedules include additional information or requirements more specific to the local area.
The schedule may identify if:
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