This advice is to help permit applicants plan any development or vegetation removal on land covered by an Environmental Significance Overlay under the Nillumbik Planning Scheme.
Many residential and rural areas within Nillumbik are covered by an Environmental Significance Overlay (ESO). This planning control aims to protect environmental values within the Shire.
To find out if a property is covered by an ESO, go to the Department of Transport and Planning and search for a planning property report.
You may need a planning permit if a property is subject to an ESO and your proposal includes:
Your application needs to consider the impact of your proposal on the environment, flora and fauna, and the landscape values of the area. You may be asked to modify your proposal to retain, preserve and/or enhance the existing environment.
A Land Management Plan may be required for your planning application.
ESO planning controls are complex. Talk to us about your permit requirements before starting any works and/or vegetation removal – call 9433 3343. There are penalties if you illegally remove or destroy vegetation or go ahead with buildings and works.
To remove vegetation in areas covered by the ESO, you will need a permit. There are some exemptions to this. Talk to Planning Services before you start.
If you have a permit, let your neighbours know that you are going to remove the vegetation, before you start. This will help avoid delays if we are called out to visit your land to check your permit.
The Nillumbik Planning Scheme has several schedules to the ESO. Each schedule has specific permit requirements.
Check what you need to include in your permit application by application type or proposal.
Use this advice as a general guide only. Seek further professional advice or contact our Planning Service team on 9433 3343.