Objecting to a planning permit application

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If you feel that you are affected by a planning proposal, you can submit an objection to the council or responsible authority. This objection must satisfy certain conditions:

  • It must be in writing.
  • It should clearly state the reasons for objecting and how you would be affected.
  • If a group of people are making a combined objection, such as a petition, they should nominate one contact person.
  • Some types of objections are not allowed, e.g. an objection relating solely to commercial competition.
  • The objection should be lodged by the date shown on the 'Notice of application'.
You may also object to applications that have not been advertised. A register of applications is available for inspection at the council office.

For council office locations and contact details, see the Find Your Local Council.

The council must make a copy of every objection available for inspection. They cannot make a decision on an application until at least 14 days after the giving of the last notice.

After the decision is made however, it is still possible to object by applying for a VCAT review.

The person applying for the permit also has the opportunity to object. For instance, they can object to conditions the council has placed on the permit, and any failure to decide within a specified period of time.

Next: Deciding

More information

PDF Icon Planning - a Short Guide (PDF - 669 KB)
Planning: a Short Guide provides more detailed information about the permit and review processes for occasional users of the planning system.

PDF Icon Chapter 3 Planning Permits (PDF - 655 KB)
This chapter of Using Victoria's Planning System provides detailed information about the permit and review processes.


Please note: Document(s) on this page are presented in PDF format. If you do not have the Adobe Reader, you can download a copy free from the Adobe web site

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