Council Planning Objections in Melbourne and Victoria

Timing matters.  Objections must be lodged during the public-notice or advertising period which is generally 14 days from the date of notice.  Late submissions risk the objection not being considered.

You should consider objecting when:

• The proposal unreasonably impacts amenity.  For example, through overlooking or overshadowing.  Other objections may be in relation to the physical appearance or bulk of a building or matters such as traffic and car parking.
• It the proposal conflicts with planning policy or controls – such as the Municipal Planning Strategy), Planning Policy Framework, various residential standards such as Clause 55 or 58, overlays, or heritage provisions.
• Design modifications or conditions could address issues – for instance, changes to height, setbacks or screening to mitigate impact.

We assess each case objectively and help you determine whether an objection is warranted.

Our objections typically address one or more of the following planning issues:

• Overlooking / Privacy – Sightline distances, sill heights and screen design to protect private open space and windows.
• Overshadowing – Solar access to secluded private open space and habitable-room windows.
• Height / Visual Bulk – Excessive building mass, street-wall height and façade articulation relative to neighbouring forms.
• Traffic and Parking – Car-parking provision, crossover design, sight distances and local safety impacts.
• Neighbourhood Character – Streetscape rhythm, setbacks, roof forms and material selection.
• Noise / Hours / Waste – Late-night venues, deliveries and collection points requiring acoustic or management controls.
• Heritage – Impacts on heritage significance, contributory fabric and interfaces with adjoining heritage places.