Victorian planning laws and frameworks

The Planning and Environment Act 1987 gives Councils responsibility for preparing Planning Schemes. Each Planning Scheme has the same structure including the State Planning Policy Framework (SPPF), Local Planning Policy Framework (LPPF), zones, overlays and other requirements. The Planning Scheme explains whether a planning permit is needed to use or develop land.

Victoria’s Planning System
Follow the links below to find general information on how to use Victoria’s Planning System
Guide to Victoria's Planning System
Planning Permit Applications

Mount Alexander Planning Scheme
The online Mount Alexander Planning Scheme contains two parts :
1. Planning maps, and
2. Information (or planning text called ordinance)

Click here to find out what zoning and overlays apply to your land or land you are interested in purchasing or selling.

Other Victorian planning regulations
The Planning and Environment Act 1987
Planning and Environment Regulations 2015
Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006

Bushfire information
Building in Bushfire Prone Areas
Bushfire Management Overlay

Native vegetation removal Information
Removing, lopping or destroying native vegetation (native trees, bushes, shrubs, grasses) usually requires a planning permit, and payment to the Department of Environment for the value of the vegetation to be removed. Wherever possible, avoid native vegetation removal by locating driveways, buildings and dwellings in cleared areas. Costly fines and possible enforcement action can apply for native vegetation removal without first getting the necessary permits.

Visit the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning website for more information.