Development in rural areas

This advice is to help you prepare applications for development or subdivision on land within rural areas (land zoned Rural Conservation or Green Wedge) under the Nillumbik Planning Scheme. This includes all land outside the urban growth boundary, land in special use zones and land in the low density residential zone in North Warrandyte.

Planning controls aim to encourage uses, buildings and works to maintain or enhance the landscape character of the area, including any significant views to the site.

Talk to us first

These planning controls are complex. Make sure you confirm application and information requirements with Planning Services on 9433 3343 before applying.

Siting and design for buildings and works 

Clause 12.05-2L of the Planning Scheme sets out the policy for rural landscapes in Nillumbik.

Landscape, amenity, topography

  • Avoid siting buildings and structures on hilltops and/or ridgelines 
  • Locate buildings wholly below the alignment of ridgelines to avoid silhouetting against the skyline 
  • Limit building numbers and consolidate 
  • Materials - avoid use of reflective building materials such as zincalume where the building is visible from other properties or roads
  • Screening buildings with plants - choose indigenous vegetation species
  • Avoid reliance on screening with vegetation for buildings in prominent locations 
  • Building profiles and form should respond to the topography of the site and the need for cut and fill should be minimised
  • Locate buildings, earthworks (including internal roads and dams) and utility services to ensure minimal impact on the topography of the area
  • Services such as power should be underground to minimise visual impact

Subdivision in rural areas

There are minimum subdivision sizes permitted in rural areas. Find out more about subdividing in rural areas.

New dwellings on existing vacant lots 

Proposals for new dwellings on existing vacant lots which are under the minimum lot size may not be approved. To discuss your proposal to build on a small rural block, talk to us on 9433 3343.

Prohibition of multiple dwellings on a lot

Current planning controls only allow properties within rural zones to have one dwelling. In some cases a small second dwelling might be possible.

Small second dwellings 

Thinking about building a self-contained granny flat? Find out what is allowed and if you first need a planning permit to build a small second dwelling.

Land capability assessments

Most rural properties require that you manage waste water on site. For proposed development on non-sewered land, you may need a Land Capability Assessment. A consultant assesses your site and advises if the land is capable of treating and retaining wastewater. Find out more go to installing or altering a septic system.

You may also need

Prepare your application for a permit

Disclaimer

Use this advice as a general guide only. Seek further professional advice or contact our Planning Service team on 9433 3343.

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