Fraud Blocker
Home / Services / Planning Permit Services
From Application to Approval

Planning Permit
Services

End-to-end planning permit expertise for Melbourne developments. We prepare your application, liaise with council, respond to objections, and guide your project through to approval.

98%
Approval Rate
210+
Projects Delivered
$120M+
Combined GDV
15+
Years Experience
Key Facts

SQM Architects has delivered over 210 development projects across Melbourne with a 98% planning approval rate. Our team of ARBV-registered architects brings 15+ years of experience navigating Victorian planning requirements, helping developers across Melbourne's suburbs navigate the planning permit process.

Expert Planning Permit Support

Obtaining a planning permit in Victoria requires more than good design—it requires understanding what councils want, how to present your application, and how to navigate the assessment process.

We've delivered 210+ planning permits across Melbourne with a 98% approval rate. Our deep council relationships and ResCode expertise mean fewer requests for further information, faster assessments, and better outcomes.

  • Complete planning permit documentation
  • ResCode (Clause 54/55/56) compliance
  • Council liaison and negotiations
  • Response to objections
  • VCAT support if required
  • Consultant coordination

Planning Permit Services

Site Analysis

Comprehensive analysis of your site's planning context before design begins.

  • Zoning assessment (NRZ/GRZ/RGZ)
  • Overlay identification
  • Neighbourhood character review
  • Development potential assessment

Planning Drawings

Complete town planning drawing package for your permit application.

  • Site plans with dimensions
  • Floor plans & elevations
  • Shadow diagrams
  • 3D renders for council

ResCode Compliance

Detailed assessment against Victorian residential planning requirements.

  • Clause 54/55/56 assessment
  • Setback calculations
  • Overlooking & overshadowing
  • Private open space compliance

Written Reports

Supporting documentation to strengthen your planning application.

  • Design response statement
  • Neighbourhood character analysis
  • Planning policy response
  • Sustainability assessment (BESS)

Council Liaison

Direct communication with council planners throughout the process.

  • Application lodgement
  • RFI responses
  • Objection management
  • Condition negotiation

VCAT Support

Expert witness and documentation support if tribunal appeal required.

  • Expert witness services
  • Amended plans for VCAT
  • Written submissions
  • Hearing attendance
"
Success in Melbourne's eastern suburbs requires architects who understand both the planning requirements and the council's design expectations.
Sammi Lian, Principal Architect
Sammi Lian Principal Architect, ARBV Registered

How We Get Your Permit Approved

1

Site Analysis

Review zoning, overlays, and constraints to understand what's achievable.

2

Design Development

Create designs optimised for both your goals and council approval.

3

Documentation

Prepare complete planning drawings and supporting reports.

4

Council Process

Lodge application, respond to RFIs, and manage objections.

5

Approval

Negotiate conditions and secure your planning permit.

When You Need Planning Permit Services

Ideal For

  • Dual occupancy developments
  • Townhouse projects (3-12 units)
  • Apartment buildings
  • Home extensions requiring permits
  • Multi-dwelling developments
  • Sites with complex overlays
  • Heritage-affected properties

Signs You Need Expert Help

  • Council has refused similar applications nearby
  • Site has multiple planning overlays
  • Neighbours likely to object
  • Proposing higher density than surrounds
  • Heritage or character concerns
  • Previous permit application refused
  • Tight timeframes for approval
Planning Resources

Official Development Planning Guides

Free Instant Analysis

Not Ready to Talk? Screen Your Site First

Get instant insights into your property's subdivision potential. Powered by official Victorian planning data—no phone call required.

Subdivision potential Zoning & overlays Results in 60 seconds
Screen Your Site Free
Secure & private

Ready to Get Your Permit Approved?

Let's discuss your project and how we can help navigate the planning process. Free strategy call, no obligation.

Book Free Strategy Call