Some advertising signs may need a planning approval depending on land zoning and the type, size and placement of signage a planning permit may be required prior to installation. It is recommended that you find out if a permit is required for any signage you are considering.
Clause 52.05 - Signs of the Whitehorse Planning Scheme outlines the regulations and requirements that apply to signs. The purpose of this clause is to:
- regulate the development of land for signs and associated structures.
- ensure signs are compatible with the amenity and visual appearance of an area, including the existing or desired future character.
- ensure signs do not contribute to excessive visual clutter or visual disorder.
- ensure that signs do not cause loss of amenity or adversely affect the natural or built environment or the safety, appearance or efficiency of a road.
There are some signs that don't need planning permits as outlined in Clause 52.05-10.
Signs are defined by the planning scheme, some common signs are below.
If a planning permit is required refer to the planning permit application checklist for signs ( PDF 165.22KB) to ensure all relevant documentation is prepared and submitted with your application.
Home-Based Business Sign
Signage to promote a home based business may require a planning permit dependent upon the size of the sign
A sign less than 0.2m2 (A4 paper size) displayed on the property does not require a planning permit. Any signs on common property may require body corporate approval.
Anything larger than 0.2m2 or a sign that is illuminated is likely to require a planning permit, refer to Clause 52.05 - Signs which outlines the provisions concerning signage.
Illuminated/Electronic Signs
All illuminated and electronic message signs require planning approval. These signs are defined as:
- Internally illuminated sign - Sign illuminated by internal lighting or which contains lights or illuminated tubes arranged as an advertisement
- Electronic sign - A sign that can be updated electronically. It includes, screens, broadcasting, still or moving images.
Promotion Signs
Signs (of a size less than 18 square metres) promoting businesses or events on land not on the same site as the sign, are defined as promotion signs. Most promotion signs require planning approval.
Check the relevant planning scheme clauses within Clause 52.05 - Signs to confirm if your sign needs a permit.
Business Identification Signs
A business identification sign is one that provides business identification information about a business or industry on the land where it is displayed. Some business identification signs require planning approval, whilst others don't. This is dependent on the size of the sign, zoning of the land on which the sign is displayed and whether there is any illumination. Check Clause 52.05 - Signs for further details.
A Frame Sign
Any A-frame signage will require a permit from Council Community Laws Department. See Signs on Public Land below for further information or contact Community Laws on 9262 6394.
Moveable Vehicle Sign
Any moveable vehicle signs will require a permit from Council Community Laws Department. For further information contact Community Laws on 9262 6394.
Signs on Public Land
Signs that are proposed to be located on land that is owned or managed by Council or another State Government authority requires their permission. You will also need to check if planning approval is required as outlined above.
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