Trees in urban and semi-rural landscapes provide many benefits that include:

• improving air quality
• reducing storm water runoff
• harbouring wildlife
• reducing stress levels.
• combating climate change by reducing heat island effects.

Recognising the importance of trees, the Victorian Government has planning controls to preserve trees and vegetation on private and public land.

If there’s an overlay protection, it’s an offence to remove a tree without a permit or development consent.

What you should do before applying for a permit

The best way to find out is:

• to visit Mapping Manningham or
• contact us.

Overlays that affect tree removal

Below is an overview of each overlay and what we look for when assessing an application. You’ll also find information on what you should do before applying for a permit.

The Environmental Significance Overlay (ESO)

What is an Environmental Significance Overlay?

Environmental Significance Overlay (ESO) is a planning control and covers most of the eastern half of Manningham.

ESO areas are important and any development of land must be compatible with identified environmental values of the particular area.

Vegetation may be a significant part of the environment in some areas as a habitat or link for native fauna. It can also contribute to soil stability and water quality as well.

What we look for when assessing a permit

An ESO has many challenges and we look for a number things when assessing a permit that includes:

• The impact of any proposed buildings, works and any associated vegetation loss on the natural environment.
• Significance of the flora, fauna and the landscape values of the area.
• The possible impact of vegetation loss on landscape values.
• Fire management requirements.
• The impact on animal movement and survival.

Where a development or vegetation removal doesn’t meet the objectives of the ESO, modifications to preserve existing vegetation is generally required.

The Significant Landscape Overlay (SLO) and Vegetation Protection Overlay (VPO)

What is the SLO and VPO?

The Manningham planning scheme has 7 schedules to the SLO and 3 schedules to the VPO. This could mean that the planning controls for a property covered by the SLO or VPO differs from another property affected by the SLO or VPO.

It’s a good idea to talk to us before commencing any construction works or vegetation removal due to the complexity of these planning controls. You should confirm the permit requirements with us.

What we look for when assessing a permit application in an SLO and VPO area

When assessing a permit application, we look for some of the following:

• The impact of the proposed buildings, works and any associated vegetation loss on the natural environment.
• The built form and the existing preferred neighbourhood character of the area.
• The possible impact of building height, location, bulk and general appearance on the character of the area.
• The impact of vegetation loss on the landscape character or significance of the area.

Where a development or vegetation removal doesn’t meet the objectives of the SLO or VPO, modifications to preserve existing vegetation is generally required.

The General Residential Zones (GRZ)

In most GRZ where land is less than 4000m2, you will not need a permit to remove a tree within the property.

Clause 54 or 55 of the Manningham planning scheme applies to any proposed development within a GRZ area. The landscape objectives of both clauses is retaining significant canopy trees as part of any site development.

If you have removed a significant canopy tree 12 months before making an application, we will generally require you to replace the tree. Also there will be minimum tree planting requirements of the schedules to the zone.

It’s a good idea to get advice from a qualified arborist before removing a tree before any future development of the site.

The Heritage Overlay

A heritage overlay protects and enhances places of natural or cultural significance, including historical gardens or trees. You will generally need a permit to remove vegetation under this overlay.

It’s a good idea to talk to us to about the permit requirements and this planning control.

A Section 173 Agreement

Section 173 agreements are from the Planning and Environment Act 1987 and covers some local properties protecting trees from removal.

This planning control is complex and you should talk to us about the permit requirements before removing any trees.

Are there any exemptions from the tree removal requirements?

Dangerous trees

If a tree is dangerous and poses an immediate risk of personal injury or to property, an exemption applies. The exemption only applies to the part of the vegetation posing an immediate risk

You should get an arborist to inspect the tree for their advice on its condition. Advice relating to future management should be in writing. You can forward this info to us for confirmation.

Tree removal and bushfires

Areas where there’s a significant risk of bushfire that’s likely to pose a threat to life and to property, such as an area affected by bushfire management overlay (BMO), you can under some circumstances remove vegetation.

How to apply

Removal, destruction or lopping of one tree.

Apply for a VicSmart Planning permit

Removal, destruction or lopping of one Victorian native tree on a property greater than 4000m2.

Apply for planning permit

Removal, destruction or lopping of two or more trees. 

Apply for planning permit

What you should do before removing a tree

Talk to a qualified arborist (minimum Australian qualification framework level 5) before removing trees. They’ll be able to provide advice and an aboricultural report.

Along with an arboricultural report, we may also require the following info with your application:

• a site plan
• an explanation of the steps you’ve taken to avoid or minimise the removal of native vegetation
• a landscape plan including any proposed replanting.

You can help by planting a tree

Contribute to the improvement of our urban forest and ecological values of the area by planting a tree on your property. native trees are best suited to the local environment.

Most permits will include a condition to replant an appropriate number of replacement trees if there’s been an approval to remove protected trees. We base our calculations of replacement trees on the replacement planting table from the Port Phillip and Westernport native vegetation plan.
 

Indigenous trees:

• Eucalyptus melliodora (Yellow Box)
• Eucalyptus goniocalyx (Long Leaved Box)
• Eucalyptus polyanthemos (Red Box)
• Eucalyptus macrorhyncha (Red Stringybark
• Eucalyptus ovata (Swamp Gum)
• Eucalyptus obliqua (Messmate Stringybark)
• Eucalyptus viminalis (Manna Gum)
• Eucalyptus rubida (Candlebark)
• Eucalyptus radiata Narrow-leaf Peppermint)
• Eucalyptus dives (Broad-leaf Peppermint)
• Eucalyptus camaldulensis (River Red Gum)

Related links

Report an issue with a tree on public land

What is a planning property enquiry request?

Get advice in writing about whether or not your proposed building, works or land use needs approval from us. We will provide advice to confirm if:

• you do not need a permit
• you need to apply for a planning permit
• you need an amendment to an existing permit
• you need consent under the conditions of a permit or a registered section 173 agreement.

How may this advice be useful?

The advice will confirm the planning requirements. If we do not require a planning permit or consent, you can provide this letter to your Building Surveyor accompanying an application for a building permit.

How much does it cost?

There is a flat fee for a planning property enquiry request.

Find out how much it costs

How to prepare for your request:

Before submitting your request, gather the following documents:

1. An electronic copy of plans and/or details of your proposal;
2. A recently searched current copy of title. Obtain a copy of property title through Landata – Victoria Land and Registry Service.
3. A copy of any registered restriction/covenant or section 173 agreements on title.

Any additional information details of your proposal or request for advice can also be included.

How to lodge your request

Apply through our online portal to lodge your request. Select one of the following:

Pay now by credit or debit card

When lodging your request, choose "Request and pay now' to pay by credit card.

Request and pay now

Pay later by invoice (Credit or debit card, BPAY or Post BillPay)

If you need more time to pay, select 'Request and pay later' below when lodging your request.
We’ll send advice after we receive payment.

Request and pay later

What happens next?

Once we receive your request, you can expect a response within seven to 10 business days. This may include a request for further information if we need any additional details about your proposal.

Related links

Request pre-application advice

Apply for a planning permit

The planning permit process

Apply for public works (outfall drain)

You need to complete a public works (outfall drain) application for the following works:

• the construction of an outfall drain and/or general drainage works
• when you want to make changes to the existing engineering plans.

If there is a revision in engineering plans, you’ll need to submit them to us for re-approval. We may need to inspect the site again.

This applications relates to any engineering construction works required by a planning permit that, once completed, will be formally taken over by us for future maintenance purposes.

We calculate fees on a percentage of the proposed works.

Apply now

Apply for subdivision works fees and maintenance

You need to apply for a subdivision works fees and maintenance for any engineering construction subdivision works required by a planning permit that once completed, will be formally taken over by us for future maintenance purposes.

We calculate fees on a percentage of the proposed works, including any new development with significantly impervious areas.

Email us if you want to cancel your application.

Apply now

What is report and consent?

For some building projects, you'll need to provide us your proposed plans to get a report and consent (special permission) from us when building or making changes. 

These report and consents will form a part of your building permit.

Any time you wish to build or make a change that sits outside building regulations, you'll need our consent before you begin construction. Some common examples include:

• wanting to build your front fence higher than what's allowed
• reducing how far your works can be from your front boundary than what's allowed
• wanting to build your wall higher on your side boundary than what's allowed.

Not sure if you need to apply? contact your appointed building surveyor.
 

How much does it cost?

View full list of fees.
 

How to prepare your application

Before you apply, prepare the following documents:

• Download and complete the Report and consent application form:
  Report and Consent Application Form

  Report and Consent Application Form

  369.21 KB

  Download

  download
• Details to verify that the application meets the relevant Minister’s guidelines
• Architectural drawings clearly highlighting areas of non-compliance
• Written submission clearly outlining details of non-compliance
• A clear current copy of title including a copy of any covenants or section 173 agreements
• Signed plans and comments from affected adjoining owners (if deemed necessary)
• Submission to verify that a front fence request within a GRZ1 zone complies with the street assessment according to the front fence height and design requirements building information sheet:
  Building Information Sheet - Front Fences GRZ1

  Building Information Sheet - Front Fences GRZ1

  380.04 KB

  Download

  download

How to apply

Once you have prepared the above documents, select 'Apply now' to apply for siting, design and fences report and consent below.

Apply now

If your property is on land liable to flooding, you will need our consent to build or make changes.
 

How much does it cost?

View full list of fees.
 

How to prepare your application

Before you apply, prepare the following documents:

• Description of the planned works
• One set of dimensioned plans drawn to scale showing a site plan, floor plan(s) and elevations. Plans must highlight the areas of non-compliance with the Building Regulations
• Copy of the letter from Melbourne Water stating the flood level for the allotment

How to apply

To start your application to build on land liable to flooding report and consent, select 'Apply now':

Apply now

Apply for Section 29A report and consent

Every time you make a change to your property's facade or demolish a property, you need our consent to confirm your property is not protected under the heritage register - no matter the age of your property.
 

How much does it cost?

View full list of fees.
 

How to prepare your application

Before you apply, prepare the following documents:

• Copy of title
• Site plan outlining demolition works

How to apply

To start your application for Section 29A report and consent, select 'Apply now': 

Apply now

You will need a Works and Drainage Permit (WDP) to undertake works that impact Manningham’s assets.

Manningham's assets are generally located on public land beyond the property boundary and can include:

• private property connections
• stormwater Connection
• water works
• sewer works
• gas works
• electricity works
• communication works
• larger scale utility works along a street
• geotechnical investigations
• other types of works.

A permit makes sure all completed works is to a suitable standard and that members of the public are safe at all times.
 

Works that need a permit

You will need a WDP if you are planning on doing any work on any of the assets listed above. This can include stormwater and general utility connection works for the following:

• private property connections
• larger scale utility works along a street
• geotechnical investigations
• other types of works.

Stormwater and drainage connection work

Only a qualified plumber can do any water tapping and stormwater drainage connection work.

With a stormwater connection, you will also need approval and an inspection.

The applicant is responsible for public safety and traffic management

The applicant is responsible for managing public safety if applying for the permit. They are also responsible for reinstating Manningham’s assets to our standards following the works. There might be a requirement for an applicant to produce traffic management plans before permit approval.

You should apply for a WDP at least 10 business days before you plan to start the works.

The permit fee is $370. We will issue an invoice after completing an initial assessment of the application. You are not required to pay up front.

Apply now

After receiving an application

After receiving your application and the documents, plans or drawings we require, we will make an assessment. We will also prepare the permit conditions. If we need further information, we will ask by email.

It may take up to 10 business days for us to email you an invoice. The permit approval will be sent after you’ve paid.

If you are no longer doing any work requiring a WDP, contact us to cancel your application or permit. If you have already made a payment and do not intend on doing the works, we will give you a refund.
 

Any work on a road reserve will need contacting a coordinating road authority

You will need to contact the relevant coordinating road authority (CRA) before any work on a road reserve. The CRA will vary depending on whether the road reserve is under local, state or federal government control. To determine which CRA is relevant, contact us.

• Contact dial before you dig to find out if there are any utility services or infrastructure located below ground, either underneath or near your proposed works
• Code of practice for works within a road reserve
• A guide to working in the road reserve
• Companion to a guide to working in the road reserve brochure
• Consent to work on the road

You will need to include these in the site plan when applying.

• Local Government Act 2020 Victoria
• Road Management Act 2004 Victoria

When is traffic management needed?

If you are conducting works or events on or near the road, it is important to ensure that:

• other road users can continue to use the road safely
• there is minimal disruptions as far as possible.

If you are planning to conduct works or events that’ll impact traffic on our roads. This includes impacts on pedestrians, cyclists and general traffic, you will need to ensure that:

• you have given appropriate warning to other road users about the works
• you are protecting other road users from potential hazards.

Who needs to apply

You will need our consent if you require traffic control devices such as bollards or signage to manage traffic around your works or event.

Who doesn't need to apply

Works managers working for utility companies and public transport operators are pre-authorised to erect traffic control devices and don’t need our consent under traffic management regulations.

When do you need to apply?

Submit your application at least 10 business days before your planned works. This lets us process your application on time and also allows us to review and amend an application if required.

How much does it cost?

Fees apply for all applications.

• For full road closures, the fee is $125.
• For lane closures and other minor traffic management, the fee is $105.

After receiving your application, we will review your Traffic Management Plan and provide you with an invoice listing your payment options.

How to apply

To apply for consent you'll need:

• A completed application form.
  Application - Erect Temporary Traffic Control Devices for Works or Events on Roads

  Application - Erect Temporary Traffic Control Devices for Works or Events on Roads

  720.95 KB

  Download

  download
• A suitable traffic management plan prepared by a qualified person or company.
• A copy of your Public Liability Insurance certificate of currency (minimum cover $20 Million).

Depending on your proposed traffic management and the impact on the road network, you may also need other documents, such as a detour plan or aftercare plan.

If your works or event impacts a Department of Transport (DoT) arterial road or requires major traffic control devices we can’t authorise, you’ll also need a Memorandum of Authorisation from DoT. You can find more info on DoT’s website.

We will require confirmation DoT has approved any traffic management on their roads.

After preparing your application, send the completed form with all necessary documents to us via email.

This application is only for consent to erect temporary control devices. Depending on your works, you might need other approvals.
 

What happens next?

Allow 10 business days for us to review your application and for any amendments that may be necessary. We will contact you if we need further information or amendments to your application.

How to cancel

Contact us to cancel your application.

Related links

Victorian Code of Practice - Worksite Safety Traffic Management 2010

Austroads Guide to Temporary Traffic Management

Road Safety Traffic Management Regulations 2019

Australian Standard AS1742.3:2019 - Traffic control for works on roads

Are you connecting to the sewer?

Being connected to the sewer is a cost effective option and needs lower maintenance compared to maintaining a septic tank.

Plus, decommissioning your septic tank may free up used space on your land and is better for our waterways, the environment and our public health.

To connect to the sewer, visit Yarra Valley Water.

How much does it cost to connect to sewer?

For connection costs, visit Yarra Valley Water.

How to decommission your septic tank?

After you have connected to sewer you can decommission your septic tank. You must:

• have its contents pumped out by a licensed sewage sludge contractor and the inlet and outlet pipes sealed.

• punch a hole in the bottom of the tank, the lids and any parts of the tank walls that sit above ground level so that they've collapsed into the tank.

• fill the tank with clean earth or sand.

Any chlorination pits on the sand filter outlets must follow the above process as these may have a direct connection to the stormwater drain.

Notify us of your septic tank decommission

Once you have decommissioned your septic tank, you must notify us.

Notify us

Easements on private property are used for services such as drainage and sewerage.

When to apply for a building over easement

If you want to build any structure over an easement you need to apply for a building over easement (BOE).

How much does it cost?

The fee for a BOE application is one off time payment of $270.

Apply for a build over easement s173 agreement

If you need a build over easement s173 agreement the preparation fee is $1,074.

Apply now

How to cancel

Contact us if you need to cancel your application.

If you are removing your pool or spa, here are some things to do with us:

1. Check if you need a permit before you demolish your pool or spa
   You can contact us or check out the removal section in VBA's pool and spa practitioner's guide PDF for advice.
2. Notify us of your removed pool or spa
   Once the pool or spa is removed or demolished you'll need to notify us so that you're no longer obligated to provide certificate of compliance every 4 years. We'll remove your pool or spa from our register.

Who can cancel pool or spa registration?

You must be the property owner to remove your pool or spa from our register.

How much does it cost?

Other than the cost to demolish your pool or spa, there is no cost to remove your pool or spa from our register.

How to notify us

If you have removed your swimming pool or spa, you can submit an application to remove it from our records.

For ownership/residency confirmation

If you require written confirmation that you are the current owner(s) of the property, select 'Request now' to complete the Ownership/Residency Confirmation form.

You will need to make payment at the time of application. The cost is $42 per application.

Request now

Contact us to get a hard copy.