Need a Planning Permit to apply for your motor car trader’s licence in Victoria?

Are you in the process of setting up a business as a Licensed Motor Car Trader (LMCT)? Sounds exciting! Before you can apply for your motor car trader’s licence, and before you start to set up your car yard, there’s another important step you may need to take: that is obtaining a planning permit from your local Council. 

Why do LMCTs often need a Planning Permit?

Zoning Regulations: Different locations across Melbourne and Victoria are zoned for different types of use—residential, commercial, industrial, etc. The zoning of your property may mean that a Planning Permit is required for your car yard..

Other permit triggers: Other factors that may trigger the need for a planning permit are access being proposed onto a main road, vegetation removal, or additional planning overlays that can impact properties. 

What do Councils consider in their assessment?

Land Use Compatibility: This ensures your car yard won’t cause issues like traffic congestion, noise, or environmental problems for the surrounding area.

Development Control: This allows local councils to manage how land is developed if you are proposing any buildings or works, ensuring appropriate bult form outcomes for the locale.

How to apply for a Planning Permit to become a Licensed Motor Car Trader (LMCT)

If you find this list daunting or stressful, AS Planning can help you throughout the Planning Permit application process, please contact us to have a chat. We can assist businesses across Victoria.

1. Check Zoning, Overlay and Other Policy Requirements
   • Reach out to your local Council or check their website to see the zoning and overlay rules for your proposed location.
   • Understand the specific requirements and restrictions in the planning scheme for your area.
2. Pre-Application Meeting
   • Schedule a meeting with the planning department of your local Council. This can help you identify any potential issues early on and clarify what you need. 
3. Prepare Your Application
   • Application Form: Get the planning permit application form from your local Council and fill it out, noting some councils preferred online applications
   • Important Supporting Documents: There are documents you will need to include with your application, including a copy of title for the land, plan(s), and a town planning report justifying the use and/or development.. You may also require additional documentation such as a traffic report by a traffic engineer, details of proposed business signage and any other specific information required by your local Council. 
   • Fees: There will be a permit application fee from Council, as well as consultancy fees to factor in for the specialist reports and any professional advice required to support your application. These fees will vary depending on your proposal and the complexity of your application.
4. Submit Your Application
   • Lodge your completed application and all supporting documents with your local Council.
5. Council Review and Public Notification
   • The Council will review your application and might ask for further information.
   • Your application may be advertised to the public so neighbours and other stakeholders can give feedback.
6. Assessment and Decision
   • The Council will consider your car yard application, any public feedback, and decide whether to grant or refuse the permit. They might attach conditions to the permit if it’s approved.
7. Compliance and Implementation
   • If you get the permit, make sure you follow all the conditions set by the Council.
   • Don’t forget to get any other necessary permits or licenses, like building permits if you’re constructing new structures.

Additional Tips

• Environmental and Safety Regulations: Make sure your car yard complies with all environmental and safety rules.
• Business Registration: Ensure your business is registered and meets all legal requirements to operate as an LMCT.
• Get help with Planning Permit Application: If you need support, AS Planning can assist you through the planning permit application process – no matter where you are located in Melbourne or across Victoria. Contact us to find out how we can help you. 
• Written planning advice may be required: It may be that a planning permit is not required for your business. In this instance you may be required to apply for formal written confirmation from your local Council. AS Planning can also assist you with receiving such advice from your local Council in a timely manner. 

By following these steps, you can smoothly navigate the process and get your car yard up and running in compliance with local regulations. Good luck with your application!