VC267 got you wanting to make changes to your Planning Permit?

What is VC267 and how does it affect you?

In December 2023, the Victorian Government introduced Planning Scheme Amendment VC267, bringing significant updates to Clause 54 and Clause 55 (ResCode). For property owners, builders, and developers in Melbourne, these changes can have a substantial impact on both existing and future residential planning permits, particularly those concerning single dwellings and dual occupancies.

If you hold an existing planning permit in Victoria and find your approved plans now affected by the requirements of VC267, you’ll likely need to navigate the process of a Section 72 Amendment with your local Council to ensure your development aligns with the new standards. This can feel overwhelming, but AS Planning, your trusted town planning consultancy firm in Victoria, is here to guide you.

Understanding VC267 changes

Planning Scheme Amendment VC267 introduced revised standards for residential development. These changes aim to improve the quality and liveability of new homes and can affect various aspects of your project, including:

• Private Open Space (POS): Increased minimum areas and specific dimensions, potentially requiring adjustments to the size or location of your secluded POS.
• Setbacks and Building Envelope: New rules regarding building setbacks from boundaries and overall building footprint.
• Habitable Rooms and Windows: Updated requirements for window placement and the layout of living spaces to ensure adequate daylight and ventilation.
• Overshadowing and Overlooking: More stringent standards for mitigating the impact of your development on neighbouring properties.
• Permit Conditions: Existing permit conditions may now need to be reviewed and updated to reflect the revised ResCode requirements under VC267.

Are you a Melbourne property owner in need of a Section 72 Amendment due to VC267?

If your planning permit was approved before the implementation of VC267 and your current plans no longer comply with the updated standards, a Section 72 Amendment is necessary. This allows you to formally request Council’s approval to modify your existing permit to align with the new regulations. Common scenarios where a Section 72 Amendment becomes essential due to VC267 include:

• Needing to increase the private open space area or reposition it to meet the new dimensional requirements.
• Having to alter building setbacks or adjust the overall building envelope to comply with revised standards.
• Reconfiguring window placements or habitable room layouts to satisfy new daylight and ventilation rules.
• Updating overshadowing or overlooking mitigation measures to meet the stricter guidelines.
• Ensuring existing permit conditions are consistent with the updated ResCode requirements introduced by VC267.
• Attempting to proceed with construction that doesn’t comply with VC267 can lead to significant delays, costly rework, and potential enforcement action from your local Melbourne Council.

Streamline your Section 72 Amendment application by engaging planning consultant

At AS Planning, we specialise in providing expert town planning services to property owners, builders, and developers across Melbourne, and regional Victoria. We understand the intricacies of Victorian planning regulations and are here to make the amendment process smooth and efficient for you. Contact us for a quote.

Our experienced team can manage your Section 72 Amendment application from start to finish, including:

• Thorough Review: We meticulously review your endorsed plans and current planning permit to identify all VC267-related compliance issues specific to your property.
• Strategic Advice: We provide clear and honest advice on the best approach to address the required changes and ensure a successful amendment application.
• Documentation Preparation: We expertly prepare all necessary amendment documentation, including justifications, revised plans (if required), and supporting reports.
• Council Liaison: We act as your advocate, communicating directly with your local Council on your behalf, managing all correspondence and inquiries.
• Referral Management: We handle any necessary referrals to external authorities and ensure timely responses to their queries.
• Expert Guidance: We advise you on whether updated ResCode reports, shadow diagrams, or completely new plans are required to support your Section 72 Amendment application.

Why choose a planning consultancy like AS Planning for your Section 72 Amendment?

• Local Expertise: Over a decade of proven experience working with Councils and understanding their specific requirements.
• Transparent Pricing: Clear, honest advice and fixed-fee proposals, providing you with cost certainty.
• Trusted Reputation: A preferred partner for small developers and builders across Victoria.
• Stress-Free Process: We handle the complexities of Council interactions, saving you time and frustration.
• Proven Success: 5-star rated with 35+ glowing Google reviews from satisfied clients in Victoria.