01 / Single houses
Do I need a planning permit
for a single house?
In Melbourne and Victoria, many single houses and extensions need a planning permit, especially on smaller lots or where an overlay applies. We review the address, zone and overlays, then prepare the planning drawings for lodgement. For larger projects we work on site with your team.
02 / Double storey
Double storey homes
and extensions
For a double storey house or extension, council looks at height, setbacks, overlooking and overshadowing, and how the form sits in the street. Getting these right early reduces redesign. Shadow diagrams and a clear site analysis plan help explain the change. Use our free ResCode checklist for a quick amenity check.
03 / What we prepare
Drawings for a house
planning permit
For a single house or double storey development application we typically prepare:
- A site analysis plan (neighbourhood and site description)
- Site plan showing the proposal in context
- Floor plans for each level
- Elevations of the proposed dwelling
- Shadow diagrams at the relevant assessment dates and times
- A design response, and a planning report where the pathway needs one
See also our full list of DA and planning permit drawings.
04 / Clause 54 & 55
Clause 54 and Clause 55 assessments
In Victoria, many residential planning permits are assessed under Clause 54 or Clause 55 of the planning scheme (often called ResCode). We prepare the drawings and written response so the proposal is clear against the standards that apply to your site.
Clause 54
Applies to one dwelling on a lot (including a double storey house or extension) where a planning permit is required. Also known as the Single Home Code.
Clause 55
Applies to two or more dwellings on a lot, and to residential buildings up to three storeys, such as dual occupancy and townhouses. Also known as the Townhouse and Low-Rise Code.
We address the standards that usually decide amenity and neighbourhood character, including:
- Neighbourhood character and street setbacks
- Building height, side and rear setbacks, and walls on boundaries
- Site coverage and permeability
- Overlooking and overshadowing
- Private open space and daylight to windows
Work through the standards with our free ResCode checklist, and start with a clear site analysis plan.
05 / Process
How the process works
Site review
We review the address, title, overlays and brief to identify whether a planning permit is likely.
Design response
Siting, height, setbacks and interfaces are tested against the relevant residential standards.
Application package
Drawings, site analysis and supporting material are coordinated for lodgement.
Lodgement support
Where engaged, we support lodgement and responses to council requests for further information.
For a fuller walkthrough, read how the planning permit process works in Melbourne.