Consent to build on land liable to flooding or designated land

building on flood prone land

The Building Regulations 2018 require Council Report and Consent before a building permit can be issued for certain building works on land liable to flooding.  

Before building works, alterations, or other improvements to your property, it is important to determine whether your land is affected by flooding or identified as flood prone.

Obtaining property information will help you understand whether your property is affected by flooding and identify any flood-related requirements, risks, or approvals that may apply to your proposed works.

If you have not already obtained flooding advice for your property, you can apply for property information.

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When to apply

Before submitting this application, please ensure you have completed the following:

  • Confirmed the property is identified as land liable to flooding or designated flood-prone land.
  • Drawing of the proposed development including finished floor level (FFL) in Australian datum height (AHD)
  • Survey plan of the proposed site with levels in Australian datum height (AHD)
  • Obtain flood advice (flood level, required finished floor level, flow) from Melbourne Water

We aim to respond within 15 business days for complete applications.  

Providing all required information at the time of lodgement will help avoid delays in assessing your application. 

FAQ

Why do I need consent to build on land liable to flooding? 

This is a requirement of the Building Regulations 2018. If your property is located on land that is liable to flooding or designated flood-prone land, consent may be required before building works can proceed. This ensures the proposed works consider flood risks and meet relevant requirements. 

How do I know if my property is affected by flooding? 

You can apply for property information or contact Melbourne Water to determine whether your property is affected by flooding. 

Do I need to contact Melbourne Water or Greater Western Water before applying? 

Yes. You should obtain the flood advice from Melbourne Water before lodging your application. 

What information do I need to provide with my application? 

  • Approval and information obtained from Melbourne Water
  • A land surveyor’s plan
  • Details of the proposed building works, including plans 

Can I submit my application without building plans? 

No. Plans and details of the proposed works are required so the application can be assessed. 

Do I need this consent before applying for a building permit? 

Confirm with your building surveyor. Generally, this consent is required before building approval can progress. 

What happens if my application is incomplete? 

Further information may be requested before your application can be assessed. Providing all required documents upfront will help minimise delays. 

Is the application fee refundable?

No. The application fee is non-refundable. 

Last updated: 10 August 2026 - 2:56pm
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