VicSmart
VicSmart is a fast track planning process implemented by the State Government to allow local councils to consider and decide on minor planning applications in a faster way.
With the introduction of VicSmart two permit processes now apply in Victoria – the VicSmart planning permit process and the regular permit process.
Features of the VicSmart permit process include:
- Applications are exempt from advertising
- Applications are decided within 10 business days
- Information that the Council is allowed to consider when granting or denying an application is now preset
- The processing of applications has been simplified
VicSmart provides more certainty to applicants about the decision-making process and the level of assessment required for each application.
What applications are eligible for VicSmart?
VicSmart applications don’t require notice or referral (other than a Special Building Overlay application). If your application does not fall into any of the categories listed, it will be processed under the regular permit process:
The following minor application types are VicSmart applications:
- Realign a boundary between two lots
- Subdivide land into lots each containing an existing building or car parking space
- Subdivide land with an approved development into two lots
- Construct a building or works in a commercial or industrial zone (with an estimated cost of up to $50,000)
- Construct a front fence in an overlay
- Remove, destroy or lop one tree
- Minor subdivision, minor buildings and works, painting or tree lopping in a Heritage Overlay
- Minor subdivision or buildings and works in a Special Building Overlay
- Display a sign in a commercial or industrial zone
- Reduce a car parking requirement
- Reduce or waive the loading and unloading requirements
Each of these VicSmart categories has criteria that must be met in order to be considered VicSmart applications.
Download a copy of the VicSmart form.(PDF, 2MB)
Visit the VicSmart website for more information about whether your application qualifies for VicSmart.
If your application needs to be referred to a ‘referral authority’, you must obtain consent from the referral authority before submitting your application.