Flood planning controls explained

The Victoria Planning Provisions (VPP) contain a set of standard statewide planning provisions that are included in all planning schemes in Victoria. They include zone provisions that control the use and development of land, and overlay provisions that typically only control the development of land.

There is one zone and three overlays that relate to flooding.

Council planning schemes include maps that show zones across all land, as well as overlay maps that show the location and extent of special features, such as where land may be subject to flooding.

Flood planning controls are based on the extent of flooding resulting from a 1 in 100 year flood event. This relates to a flood that has a one per cent chance of occurring in any given year.

The controls ensure flood risk is considered in planning decisions to avoid intensifying the impact of flooding through inappropriately located uses and development.

Councils refer planning permit applications within the Port Phillip and Westernport region to Melbourne Water, as the determining referral authority, to assess applications and provide advice.

Types of flood planning controls

There are four types of flood planning controls that mean you may need our consent before planning permission is issued by your council.

Urban Floodway Zone (UFZ)

The UFZ typically applies where the potential flood risk is high. The UFZ controls land use as well as development, with land use being restricted to low intensity uses such as recreation and agriculture. Development is generally not encouraged in the UFZ.

Special Building Overlay (SBO)

The SBO identifies areas prone to stormwater, or overland flooding when the capacity of the drainage system is exceeded. This overlay requires a planning permit for buildings and works.

Land Subject to Inundation Overlay (LSIO)

The LSIO typically applies to land affected by flooding associated with waterways and coastal areas . This overlay requires a planning permit for buildings and works.

Floodway Overlay (FO)

The FO applies to land that's identified as carrying active flood flows associated with waterways and open drainage systems and high hazard areas. This overlay requires a planning permit for buildings and works.