Reporting breaches and complaints

Planning scheme

This happens when your works are conducted without planning approval, including:

• the removal/lopping of a protected tree
• illegal use/occupation of a site.

Planning permit

This happens with a breach of any permit condition, including:

• operation outside of approved hours
• noise, light and sound impacts on the community
• use of the land not approved in a permit or endorsed plan.

Endorsed plans

This happens when:

• plantings are not completed/removed
• window screenings are not installed as required
• building and works are inconsistent with or not shown on endorsed plans.

Section 173 agreement

This type of agreement restricts building exteriors, use of the site or any development to be completed as set out in endorsed plans or permits.

Noise control

Local laws require that noise from building works and landscaping in residential areas must not be able to be heard from within a dwelling:

• Monday to Friday before 7am and after 6pm
• Saturday before 9am and after 3pm.

Illegal brothels

We occasionally receive reports of alleged illegal brothels. We do not deal with illegal brothels as they are the responsibility of Victoria Police.

For concerns about an illegal brothel:

• contact your local police station
• contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via their information online.

Remember: it is your responsibility to comply with the Banyule Planning Scheme, all conditions set out in planning permits and any endorsed plans and documents. This will avoid any reported breaches on your project.

We investigate all reported breaches and work to resolve situations so compliance is met.

If negotiations are not appropriate, or they fail, then we can:

• issue an official warning: this can include remedial actions.
• issue a planning infringement notice: this includes a penalty fee (set by the State Government relative to the breach) and remedial actions.
• issue an enforcement order: we can make an application to VCAT for an enforcement order to achieve compliance.
• commence a prosecution in Magistrates’ Court: where responsible parties may face conviction and significant financial penalties.
• make an application to VCAT to have a permit cancelled if there is significant failure to meet permit conditions.

Ways you can report

Lodge a planning complaint online

You may also describe the breach by calling the Development Planning Team on 9490 4222.

Reporting noise

Complaints regarding out-of-hours construction noise should be directed to the Local Laws team at enquiries@banyule.vic.gov.au

The following are not considered planning permit breaches:

• Changes that don't require planning permission.
• Residential noise: this can be reported by emailing enquiries@banyule.vic.gov.au.
• Noise originating from a public place, such as people leaving a restaurant or children playing in a park.
• Arguments with neighbours or threatening actions should be reported to the Victoria Police.
• Illegal car parking, abandoned vehicles, motorbike noise, waste collection matters, graffiti or unsightly premises.