Cutting red tape with online pre-application planning service

If you are planning to build at Waterford Rise accessing pre-application planning advice is now quicker and easier than ever with a new Baw Baw online booking system.

The pre-application planning support service helps cut red tape and streamline the permit application process. Customers can connect directly with planning officers before an application is lodged to provide a faster process with greater certainty from start to end.

The service is available in two ways – either a free 45-minute face-to-face meeting with a planning officer or via written advice at a cost of $90.

Through the service, customers can access support including:

• Planning advice about a proposal including whether a planning permit is required.
• Opportunity to make changes to an application in line with Council’s requirements before lodgement.
• Formal registration process on Councils records to streamline a planning permit application once submitted, based on the advice provided.

Free pre-application meeting

All customers are welcome to book a free 45-minute preliminary meeting with a planning officer to seek verbal advice about a proposal.

Customers can check availability and schedule an appointment online via this link. Once a booking is made a confirmation email will be sent including details about the meeting and a link to submit important information to ensure quality advice:

Written planning advice request

For customers unable to attend a face-to-face meeting, or those who prefer a paper trail, the same advice can be sought in writing at a cost of $90. Written planning advice is generally received within 10 business days after a request is lodged.

To apply for written advice, customers can complete a registration form available for download on Council’s website.

For more information about the new pre-application service, go to www.bawbawshire.vic.gov.au/Plan-and-Build/Planning-permits/Pre-Application-Planning-Services