Support for change of use planning permits across Geelong and Victoria
A change of use planning permit is required when land or buildings are proposed to operate differently from their current approved use. Depending on the zoning and surrounding context, Council may require a planning permit for business use before the new use can commence. While these applications can sometimes appear straightforward, they often involve detailed assessment against planning controls, neighbourhood amenity considerations, car parking requirements, and operational impacts.
As an experienced change of use town planner, our Geelong-based team has extensive experience preparing and managing change of use planning permit applications across a range of commercial, industrial and residential settings around Victoria. Whether you require a commercial change of use permit, an industrial change of use planning permit, a medical practice change of use permit or a retail change of use planning permit, we understand the matters Council typically focuses on during assessment and the level of detail often required to support an application.
By identifying potential issues early, we can often help reduce avoidable delays and minimise lengthy Requests for Further Information (RFIs). We work closely with clients to prepare planning responses and supporting documentation addressing matters such as hours of operation, amenity impacts, parking, site constraints, and compliance with relevant planning scheme provisions.
Our services are tailored to the level of support required. Some clients engage us to manage the process from preliminary advice through to permit issue, while others require assistance strengthening an application already prepared or responding to Council RFIs after lodgement. We also assist clients seeking a convert residential to commercial planning permit, helping them understand the planning requirements before committing to a proposal.
Obtaining early planning advice can help clarify the approval pathway and identify potential concerns before delays arise during assessment and provide greater confidence throughout the planning process.