What is planning?

Planning is the process of considering land uses and developments for the current and long-term interests of the community.

The Planning and Environment Act 1987 regulates planning across Victoria. The Act outlines the planning permit process.

The Whittlesea Planning Scheme identifies which land uses, developments or subdivisions require a planning permit. It considers any planning controls, including zoning and overlays, that apply to a property.

You can learn more about the zones and overlays that apply to your property by visiting the VicPlan website and generating a planning property report.

If you're unsure if you need a permit, we have multiple resources to help.

You can: 

• find out if you need a planning permit
• use our online planning application portal
• discuss your application at the Council planning counter
• contact the Building and Planning department on 03 9217 2170, or at buildplan@whittlesea.vic.gov.au.

The planning permit process can be confusing, especially if it’s not something you have experience with. Once you know you need a planning permit, you'll need to prepare your application. 

Our step-by-step guide about understanding the planning permit application process is a great place to start. 

The apply for a planning permit page explains what supporting documents you'll need and how to apply via the online planning application portal.

This depends on the scope and complexity of the application. See our apply for a planning permit page for more information on processing timelines and fast-tracking.

You can contact the Building and Planning department on 03 9217 2170, or via email at buildplan@whittlesea.vic.gov.au.