The Victorian Farmers Federation would like to inform its Members that the new changes to the Victorian Planning Scheme, in regards to accommodation (including dwellings) and wind energy facilities, have now been gazetted.
The amendment introduces a new planning permit requirement to use land for a bed and breakfast, dependent person’s unit, dwelling and rural worker accommodation located within one kilometre from the nearest title boundary of land subject to:
- A permit for a wind energy facility; or
- An application for a permit for a wind energy facility: or
- An incorporated document approving a wind energy facility; or
- A proposed wind energy facility for which an action has been taken under section
- 8(1), 8(2), 8(3) or 8(4) of the Environment Effects Act 1978.
A planning permit will also be required for building and works associated with accommodation within one kilometre from the nearest title boundary of land subject to the same conditions listed above. This means that a proposal for any of the above uses will require a planning permit no matter what the zoning says if it is within one kilometre of one of the conditions listed above.
The amendment also introduces decision guidelines to include the consideration of noise and shadow flicker impacts on accommodation (including dwelling) and impacts to the operation of a wind energy facility if the accommodation is located within one kilometre from the nearest title boundary of land.
The amendment also made changes to notice of application requirements for applications. The changes now require the planning permit applications for accommodation within one kilometre of one of the listed conditions above to be notified to those landholders.
VFF is continuing to lobby the Government for sensible planning controls that recognise the right to farm and avoid land use conflict.
If you need any clarification on the new rules please feel free to email the VFF policy team at [email protected] or talk to your local council if you are thinking of making a planning application.