Building and development

Image

When you need a permit

Having a Heritage Overlay on your property does not mean that you cannot make any changes but you may need a planning permit for building and works.

There is more detailed information on the City of Melbourne website and we encourage you to speak with a planner before lodging a permit application. The steps to finding out if you need a planning permit and how to apply for one are:

Step 1

Check City of Melbourne Interactive Maps (CoMMaps)Opens in new tab to see what planning controls apply to your property, including the Heritage Overlay and the Victorian Heritage Register.

Step 2

Read the planning controls that apply to your property (Heritage Overlay is Clause 43.01) and check whether a permit is required for your buildings and works.

Currently permits are needed under the Heritage Overlay to:

• subdivide land

  Image

  

• demolish or remove a building or part of a building

  Image

  

• construct a building or part of a building or a fence

  Image

  

• construct or carry out works

  Image

  

• externally alter a building

  Image

  

• construct or display a sign

  Image

  

• externally paint an unpainted surface (or re-paint an already painted surface a different colour)

  Image

  

• externally paint a building if the painting constitutes an advertisement.

  Image

  

Assessing planning permits

The City of Melbourne’s heritage policies guide planners in assessing applications for permits under the Heritage Overlay. The policies encourage development that is in harmony with the existing character and appearance of designated heritage places and areas.

Planners consider a range of factors including but not limited to how the proposed development impacts the heritage significance of the property, how it contributes to the character of the surrounding area or precinct and other elements such as height, setbacks, what can be seen from the street and materials used.

Refer to the Heritage Design Guide.