Multi-unit developments

Movable habitable structures that rely on an existing dwelling (commonly known as granny flats) don’t fall into this category. These dependent person’s units usually don't need a Planning Permit but will require a Building Permit.

If you are unsure about whether your project is a multi-unit development, contact Statutory Planning at 9278 4888 for more information.

Construct a multi-unit development

Step 1: Before you begin

As a multi-unit development is a complex project, you should engage a suitably qualified professional, such as an architect or draftsperson, to design the plans.

We also recommend seeking advice from town planning, traffic and drainage experts.

Designing the plans

Your designer should ensure the plans comply with the Development Standards in Clauses 55 and 58 of the Boroondara Planning Scheme and the Neighbourhood Character Policy in Clause 22.05.

The plans should also identify and consider where appropriate:

• the location of easements and infrastructure on the site, such as drains and sewer pipes 
• any significant or canopy trees  on the property or street
  Include protective measures for these trees to be retained.
• any relevant restrictive covenants, as recorded on the Certificate of Title
• stormwater detention systems, if required.

Pre-application meeting

We recommend you book a pre-application meeting so that we can assist may assist by identifying information that will be required and any areas of concern before you make your Planning Permit application.

Organise a pre-application meeting.

Step 2: Apply for a Planning Permit

You will need to submit:

• an application form, fee and a current copy of  the Certificate of Title
• architectural plans, which include a neighbourhood and site description, as well as site, elevation and floor plans, material schedule and shadow diagrams
  The plans should also be to scale, fully dimensional and include actual ground and finished floor levels.
• any additional supporting documentation required, such as a Clause 55 'ResCode' assessment, arborist report, environmental sustainability assessments, or traffic report.

For information on how to apply and to download the application form, visit the Apply for a Planning Permit page.

Step 3: Apply for a Building Permit

1. Read the Building Permit application checklist to determine which supporting documents you need.
2. If relevant, apply for Report and Consent.
   For example, for corner property fences, building over an easement or public protection (building close to public space).
3. Lodge the Building Permit application form, fee and supporting documents.
   
   You may lodge the application for a Building Permit while other permit applications are still being processed, but may only begin construction when all permits and approvals are granted.
   
   Download the Building Permit application form and submit the application.

Step 4: Begin construction

You may begin construction after all required permits and approvals have been granted.

Read your Planning Permit and Building Permit carefully. The work will need to be inspected and approved by the Relevant Building Surveyor. Mandatory inspections continue until the work is completed and complies to building legislation.

Step 5: Apply for an Occupancy Permit for each unit

Apply to the Relevant Building Surveyor for an Occupancy Permit for each unit you build. A resident may only occupy a unit after the Occupancy Permit for that unit has been issued.

Apply for an Occupancy Permit.

Subdivision

If you wish to subdivide the land into individual titles you need to engage a land surveyor to prepare a plan of subdivision and apply for subdivision approvals.

Find out more about permits for subdivision.

Timeline

Planning Permit applications for multi-unit developments often take longer to assess than simple structures. Public notice periods and requests for new plans often extend the timeline. For more information about Planning Permit assessment stages see Assessing a Planning Permit application.

Building Permit applications sent to Council are assessed within 10 business days. The response is usually a request for further information. Private Building Surveyors have their own timelines.

Planning standards for multi-unit developments

The following Boroondara Planning Scheme clauses provide criteria for assessing Planning Permit applications for multi-unit developments.

More information

For Planning Permit enquires, contact our Statutory Planning team on 9278 4888. For Building Permit enquiries, contact our Building Services team on 9278 4999.

Email Planning and Building enquires to [email protected].