Find out if you need a planning permit

This service will be able to assist you with determining if you need a planning permit, why you might require a permit and guide you in what documents to provide with your application.

This service can assist in determining if a permit is required for things such as:

  • Extending your home
  • Building a shed
  • Vegetation removal
  • Starting a home business
  • Other improvements to your property

How it works

  1. Click ‘Start now’ and sign up for an account
  2. Enter the address of your development proposal
  3. Answer a series of questions about your project
  4. Once enough information is provided, the service will generate an analysis indicating whether a planning permit is likely required

Start now

Important: this is not an official planning decision
The result from this service is a general guide and does not constitute an official planning decision. It provides preliminary information only. You should always confirm your planning requirements by obtaining written planning advice or applying for a planning permit if necessary. Proceeding without the required permits may result in enforcement action.

Frequently asked questions

Is this service right for me?

What types of development does this service cover?

This service is best suited for residential projects, including:

  • Home extensions
  • Swimming pools
  • Sheds
  • Home-based businesses

It is not suitable for more complex developments such as subdivisions or multi-unit developments. If your proposal falls into one of these categories, please contact Council to speak with a planner.

Can I use this service for a property I’m looking to purchase?

Yes. You can check planning requirements for any address within the Mornington Peninsula Shire.

What if I don’t know all the details of my project?

That’s okay! The service can still provide guidance based on the information you have.

I'm a professional in the building sector. Is this service suitable for me?

Yes. This service can be a useful tool for building professionals to quickly check planning requirements.

Reliability of results

Will this service give me a definitive answer?

The service provides guidance based on the information you enter and its interpretation of planning rules. However, it cannot consider factors such as:

  • Encumbrances or caveats on the property title
  • Previous planning permits
  • Existing uses

For complete certainty, we recommend consulting our Planning Team or a private planning consultant before proceeding, especially for complex cases.

How accurate and reliable is the advice?

The service bases its advice on a detailed analysis of relevant planning scheme and provides references to specific rules and clauses. However, as it does not access all property-specific data, its results should be considered guidance rather than a final decision.

Can I get a planner to verify the answers provided by this service?

Yes. You can contact the Shire to discuss your results with a planner on (03) 5950 1010. Please have your myLot reference number ready when you call.

Privacy and security

What data does this service collect and how is it used?

The service collects the information you provide about your project to generate planning guidance. Your email is used to send you a copy of your results. We do not use your personal data for any other purpose.

Where is my data stored, and is it secure?

All data is securely stored on servers located in Australia. We comply with strict data protection regulations and implement robust security measures to protect your information.

Who developed this service?

This service is provided by MyLot, an Australian technology company specialising in AI for the planning and building sector. Learn more at mylot.ai.

Does this service use AI?

Yes. AI is used to ask relevant questions about your proposal and generate a report. Your email and property address are not disclosed to the AI for AI training.