Apply for a plans assessment

The City of Stonnington is moving to a new online service system. There may be processing delays during the October transition period.

A plans assessment involves the approval of business renovations or construction. We advise you to apply for a plans assessment to get your floor plan approved and ensure renovations meet state government guidelines.

You need a plans assessment for prescribed accommodation such as hotels, motels, hostels and rooming houses. It is highly recommended for all other applications.

If environmental health officers inspect the work and it does not meet requirements, you will need to make further rectification work.

We also recommend that you apply for a property enquiry report before buying an existing business, to ensure you understand the current property issues.

How to apply

Prepare your documents

You need to provide a copy of your proposed floor plans. The plans must be drawn to scale (at least 1:100) and must clearly show:

  • the use for each room
  • the materials and finishes on all surfaces (floors, walls and benchtops)
  • the layout of all fixtures, fittings and equipment (food preparation area, dishwasher, bathrooms, toilets, bedrooms (prescribed accommodation)
  • all sinks and their intended uses
  • all storage areas (food, chemicals, equipment)
  • bin wash area and bin storage
  • the location of staff and customer toilets. 

Apply online

Log in to the platform to apply. If you don’t have an account, you can sign up. Find out more about our online self-service platform.

Once logged in:

  • select ‘All applications and permits' under Apply for something
  • find ‘Plans Assessment Only – Food, Health and Accommodation Businesses’ and select ‘Start’
  • follow the prompts.

Apply for a plans assessment

You can track the progress of your applications anytime through the platform.

Receive approval for your floorplan

An Environmental Health Officer will assess your floor plans and make recommendations to ensure that the plans meet the legal requirements.

Once approved, we'll send you a stamped copy of the approved floor plan.

Have your premises inspected

When construction of your premises is complete, you must contact the Public Health Team to arrange a final inspection. 

An Environmental Health Officer will organise a time to visit your premises to ensure your renovation meets the appropriate standards.