Planning permit FAQs

• Can an objection be withdrawn?
• What is ESD and STEPS?
• Does Moreland have any specific variations to ResCode (Clause 55) for unit applications?
• What do I do if my planning permit is about to expire
• Does getting a planning permit also mean I will get a Building Permit?
• What sort of things do I need a planning permit for?

Can I withdraw my objection to a planning permit application?

Yes, an objector can withdraw an objection. This must be done in writing. 

You should write a letter to Council advising that you now withdraw your earlier objection. The letter must have:

• the planning permit application number, for example MPS/2009/1234
• the address of the site on which the development or use is proposed, and 
• the objector’s name, address and telephone number.

Council cannot accept a ‘conditional’ withdrawal of objection, for example, “if the developer removes the window I no longer object”.

Objections are often withdrawn after the builder has made changes to their plans in an attempt to address the concerns raised in objections or after discussions between the applicant and the objector, or following a consultation meeting.

What is ESD and STEPS?

ESD stands for Environmentally Sustainable Design. Council is committed to creating an environmentally sustainable city.

Moreland along with other local governments in Victoria, have implemented a program called 'Sustainable Design Assessment in Planning Process (SDAPP)'. Under SDAPP, where your development meets certain triggers, you will need to submit more information with your planning permit application.  For more information on how SDAPP is relevant for your planning application, see 'Sustainable Design Assessment in the Planning Process'.

STEPS is an online sustainability assessment tool used in the SDAPP framework.  STEPS is used to assess residential developments.  A similar tool, the Sustainable Design Scorecard, is used for commercial developments.  For more information see ESD Assessment Tools.

Does Moreland have any specific variations to ResCode (Clause 55) for unit applications?

No. However when making decisions on ResCode applications Council will also look at local policies such as the Urban Village Policy (clause 22.02) and Neighbourhood Character Policy (clause 22.10). Policies like these also help assessment of unit developments.

If I get a planning permit, will get a Building Permit?

Building Permits are issued under separate legislation. Council’s Moreland Building Services looks at different things to planning permits like a building’s structure, materials, safety issues and fire ratings. Some things like the distance a building must be set back from the street are similar to planning controls.

Should I get a planning permit before a building permit?

Yes, you must always get a planning permit before a building permit.  We strongly encourage you arrange for a building surveyor to review your plans before you lodge your planning permit application.

Sometimes when you need a planning permit for a new house or extensions to a house, things like the setbacks of the side walls from the boundary or the heights of the walls cannot be assessed as part of the planning permit. This can happen if your land is:

• in a residential zone and over 300 square metres, and
• in a heritage overlay, Environmental Significance Overlay or other overlay area.  

When building heights and setbacks cannot be checked as part of the planning permit they must be checked as part of getting a building permit. 

It is important that you get these building issues looked at informally by a building surveyor before you lodge a planning permit application.  If you don’t you could end up with a planning permit that does not meet the building regulations. 

This will mean that you need to go back and apply to amend your planning permit which will delay your development and cost more.