Apply for a Planning Permit

Understanding the Planning Permit Application Process

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There are several steps to the Planning Permit application process, from pre-application to final planning decision. Not all applications require each step of the process as referrals, further information requests and VCAT may not be necessary.

1. Before you apply

It is best to seek planning advice early in the process to reduce delays in the planning approval process above. Here are some options to get started:

  • Engage with your neighbours to share your project and resolve challenges where you can, prior to applying to Council.
  • Utilise Planning Information Sheets - Before you submit your application or seek advice, it is recommended that you use the relevant Information sheets as a guide to ensure you have everything required for the assessment process.

Planning Information & Fact Sheets

  • Seek Planning Advice - It is recommended that you seek the advice of a Planning Consultant to ensure you are fully informed and prepared. You can also contact Council for either informal or written advice once you have a clear proposal and related plans to discuss.

Seek Planning Advice

2. Gather the required documents

All planning applications require the following information:

Planning Permit Application

A complete Planning Permit application(PDF, 692KB) including the property address, detailed and clear proposal, owner’s details, cost of the development and signed declarations.

Note: If you submit your application online, the Planning Permit Application Form is not necessary

Certificate of Title

A current copy of the Certificate of Title (less than 90 days old) including the registered search statement, plan of subdivision and any restrictions that apply to the land e.g. covenants or Section 173 agreements. You can purchase a copy of your current Certificate of Title from www.landata.vic.gov.au.

Please visit How to Request a Certificate of Title for further assistance.

Plans

One copy of the site, elevations and floor plans. Plans must be to scale (1:100 or 1:200).

Site Plans

A site plan is a bird's-eye view which shows your existing and proposed development, and the set-back to boundaries and neighbouring properties/developments.

It must show all structures on the site and any other features, such as vegetation, car parks, driveways, and crossovers. The plans should distinguish clearly between the existing structures and features and those that are being proposed.

A short, written summary should be provided detailing the site coverage, floor area, number of parking spaces, the area proposed for landscaping and any other relevant details.

Example of existing and proposed site plans(PDF, 5MB)

Elevation plans

Elevation plans are side-on views of your proposed development. Elevations of all four sides (north, south, east, west) should accompany your application.

The plans should show:

  • details of construction materials and colours (i.e.; Basalt, Colourbond)
  • the height and length of walls, including to the apex of the building from natural ground level
  • the slab or footing details
  • the dimensions of windows and their height above natural ground level

Example of elevation plans(PDF, 4MB)

Floor plans

A floor plan is a bird's-eye view of the existing and proposed structures in your development. It should show the layout of the building, the location and dimension of walls, windows and doors, and the use of each room and area within the building.

Example of a Floor Plan(PDF, 491KB)

Other information may be requested by Council if it is considered necessary to assess the application.

3. Submit a Planning Permit Application

For any new Planning Permit you will need to complete an application online below, or in person.

Apply Online

The online application process will take approximately 15 minutes to complete if you have all the required documentation.

Lodge a Planning Permit Application

Apply in person

To submit in person you must complete this Application for a Planning Permit(PDF, 337KB) and attach all relevant documentation and return it to Customer Service or mail to 18 Roberts Avenue, Horsham.

4. Payment of Fees

Council will review the application to calculate the fee. Once the fee amount is determined, an invoice will be provided for payment. The application is considered lodged once payment is received.

You can view the Planning Permit Fees here(PDF, 220KB)

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