Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a Building Permit and a Planning Permit?
A Planning Permit is for the use and/or development of land.
A Building Permit relates to the construction of a development only, not what the land can be used for.
If a Planning Permit is required for the development, then Council's Building Department should be contacted also to determine the need for a Building Permit.
Council's Planning and Building Units are located at:
Prahran Town Hall
180 Greville Street (cnr Chapel and Greville Streets), Prahran
Office hours: 8.30am - 5pm Monday to Friday
Planning Enquiries: 8290 3329
Building Enquiries: 8290 3218
Visit the Building pages on this site for further information about Building Permits.
Where can I obtain a copy of Title?
A copy of Title can be obtained from Land Victoria. Depending on the information you have, costs may vary. To obtain a copy of Title contact:
Title and Property Certificates and Vendor Statement Online Services
Office hours 8:30 am to 4:00pm Monday to Friday (AEST)
Level 10, 570 Bourke Street,
Melbourne 3000.
(03) 8636 2456
What is a Planning Certificate?
A Planning Certificate is issued by the Department of Planning and Community Development to provide details of:
- The planning instrument affecting a property
- The zoning of a property
- Any other planning controls affecting the property (such as any heritage controls)
Whilst Council can give an indication of zoning and overlays, a planning certificate is required to verify this information. The Department of Planning and Community Development is the responsible authority for issuing planning certificates and Council cannot issue planning certificates. For further information about obtaining a Planning Certificate you can contact:
Further information about obtaining planning certificates is available by contacting the Land Information centre:
Level 10 570 Bourke Street
Melbourne VIC 3000
(+61 3) 8636 2831
What is a Fast Track application?
A Fast Track application is a basic development application that does not require advertising or referrals.
Eligible applications may include:
- Fences
- Swimming pools
- Garden sheds and verandahs/pergolas
- Some minor building works or additions
- Some advertising signage
Eligibility for the Fast Track process is determined by senior staff within the Statutory Planning Unit and is based on the size and nature of the proposed works and the planning controls (zones and overlays) that affect the site.