Planning schemes regulate the use and development of land. One way they do this is by requiring that certain types of use or development can only be carried out if a planning permit is granted.
A planning permit is a legal document that allows a certain use or development to proceed on a specified parcel of land. The benefit of the permit generally attaches to the land for which it has been granted although a permit is sometimes made specific to a nominated owner or operator. A permit is always subject to a time limit and will expire under specified circumstances. The responsible authority will impose conditions when granting a permit and endorsed plans will also usually form part of the permit. The proposal must satisfy all the conditions on a planning permit.
The planning permit is the preferred form of development approval in the Victorian planning system. Planning schemes allow a wide range of uses to be considered in each zone through the permit process.
A permit is not always required to use or develop the land. Planning schemes allow some changes in land use without the need for a permit, provided conditions are met. Some uses or development may be prohibited.
A planning permit should not be confused with a building permit. A building permit is issued under the Building Regulations 2006 and generally relates only to the construction aspects of a particular building or development. If a planning permit is required, a permit under the Building Act 1993 cannot be granted unless the Building Surveyor is satisfied that any relevant planning permit has been obtained and the building permit will be consistent with that planning permit or other prescribed approval.
Any building permit issued must be consistent with the requirements of the planning permit, including conditions and endorsed plans.
Source: Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning