For the applicant
For the objector
Why we advertise
We advertise planning applications:
- to inform your neighbours of your application
- to give businesses and people affected by your plans a chance to object
Advertising process
Council advertises all planning applications that might have an impact on neighbouring houses and businesses.
Receiving objections and submissions
When your planning application is publicly advertised, nearby residents and property owners can review your proposal and submit objections if they believe it may affect them or their property.
Responding to Public Notice
- Reviewing Submissions:
Once the public notice period ends, you can request copies of all submissions. This is your opportunity to address concerns or adjust your proposal accordingly. - Consultation Meetings:
A meeting may be arranged with relevant parties to discuss the proposal, identify concerns, and explore ways to improve outcomes for everyone involved.
Resolving Issues
We encourage you to resolve any concerns raised during the public notice period before a decision is made.
Note: If a decision is contested, any objector can appeal Council’s ruling to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).
For further details on the process, talk to the planner processing your application.
For the objector
Make a submission or objection
If you are notified of a planning application, it’s a good idea to review the advertised application material.
Viewing unadvertised applications
Planning applications that are not on advertising may be viewed upon request only. Requests can be made to KnoxBuilding&[email protected].
What to do if notified of a planning application
If you receive a notice about a planning application, you have three options:
- No action
If you are not concerned about the proposal, you don’t need to do anything. - Comment
If you want to share your support or raise a concern without objecting, you can lodge a submission. - Object
If you have a serious concern, you can object to the proposal. For your objection to be considered, clearly state your concern in your submission by following our objection guidelines.
You can find details about the application by visiting our online services.
You can also talk to the responsible Planning Officer about the proposal.
Factors considered in planning permit applications
This table outlines examples of factors Council can and cannot consider when assessing planning permit applications. It helps clarify valid concerns under the Planning and Environment Act.
| Factors Council can consider | Factors Council cannot consider |
|---|---|
| Impact on Neighbourhood Character: How the proposal aligns with the area’s established character (note: the number of dwellings alone does not define neighbourhood character). | Loss of Property Value: Changes to property value resulting from nearby developments. |
| Overlooking: Potential for a proposed window or balcony to overlook private spaces like bedrooms or backyards. | Boundary Fencing Issues: Concerns about shared fences between private properties, which are covered under the Fences Act and should be resolved between neighbours. |
| Overshadowing: Whether the proposal creates unreasonable shadowing over neighbouring properties, such as backyards or windows. | Construction-Related Impacts: Issues like dust or potential property damage during construction, which are addressed during the building permit stage. |
| Car Parking Shortfalls: If the application requests a reduction in the required number of parking spaces, the impact of this change is considered. | Street Parking Availability: Impacts on street parking unless the application seeks to reduce the required number of parking spaces under planning regulations. |
Understanding these factors can help you prepare informed submissions or address concerns effectively.
Submit your feedback on a planning application
You can share your views on a planning application through the following methods:
- Online: Submit your feedback directly.
- Post: Mail a hard copy of your submission to Council. Ensure it arrives before the decision date.
Knox City Council Civic Centre
511 Burwood Highway, Wantirna South, VIC 3152
Opening hours: Monday - Friday, 08:30 am - 5 pm.
Important submission guidelines
- Timing: Lodge your submission within the 14-day public notice period. Council will not make a decision until this period has ended.
- Late Submissions: These will still be considered if the decision is pending, but timely submissions are encouraged.
Writing an effective submission for a planning application
To ensure your submission is considered, it must meet the following criteria:
What Council Can Consider:
- Relevance to Planning Laws: Submissions must relate to overlays in the Planning Scheme (e.g., heritage overlays) and fall within the scope of the Planning and Environment Act.
- Understanding the Application: Review the application to understand what will be assessed and which aspects may be exempt from evaluation. This ensures your concerns align with Council's assessment criteria.
Tips for Writing Your Submission:
- Be Specific: Clearly explain how the proposal will impact you. Highlight specific sections of the proposal that cause concern.
- Stay Objective: Focus your comments on reasons why a planning permit is required.
- Provide Evidence: Include supporting materials, such as photos, to illustrate your concerns.
- Offer Solutions: Suggest ways the proposal could be adjusted to address your issues.
- Seek Guidance: You can contact Council for more information or technical advice about the Planning Scheme. Note that Council cannot assist in drafting your submission.
By following these steps, your submission will provide clear, actionable feedback that Council can use in its decision-making process.
What happens after you make a submission or objection
Once you submit your objection or feedback on a planning application, here’s what you can expect:
Acknowledgement of Submission
- Receipt Confirmation: Council will send you an acknowledgment of your submission.
- Petitions: If your submission is part of a petition or joint objection from one address, it will count as a single submission. All correspondence will be sent to the first name listed on the petition.
Assessment and decision process
- Timeframe: The time required for Council to assess and decide on an application depends on its complexity, the number of submissions received, and whether a consultation meeting is held.
- Consultation Meetings: If a meeting is arranged to address concerns, Council will invite you to attend.
- Assessment Framework: Council assesses the application within the relevant planning framework, considering all submissions.
- Council Meeting Decisions: In some cases, the application will be decided at a Council Meeting, and you will be notified if you made a submission.
Notice of Decision (NOD) and appeals
If you lodged a submission, you will receive a Notice of Decision. This document outlines:
- Council’s position on the application.
- Conditions attached to the permit if it is granted.
You have 28 days from issuing the NOD to appeal the decision through the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).
Withdrawing an objection
Write to Council, or contact the planner processing the application, to withdraw your objection if:
- You are satisfied with the outcome of negotiations with the permit applicant.
- You decide not to pursue your objection.
Important Note: Conditional withdrawals are not accepted. Withdrawing your objection means forfeiting your right to appeal the decision to VCAT.
By understanding this process, you can stay informed and ensure your concerns are appropriately considered.
Send your withdrawal to:
Knox City Council Civic Centre
511 Burwood Highway, Wantirna South, VIC 3152
Opening hours: Monday - Friday, 08:30 am - 5 pm.
Need help?
Contact Planning Services and we will get back to you.
Or call our Planning Services team on 9298 8125.
