What is an Overlay?

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The Ballarat Planning Scheme Maps may show that a piece of land has an overlay as well as a zone affecting it. Not all land has a overlay, and some land may be affected by more than one overlay. If an overlay applies, it is because the land has special features such as a heritage building, significant vegetation or flood risks. A Heritage Overlay for example, applies to heritage places of natural or cultural significance and describes the requirements that apply.

The overlay information will indicate if a planning permit is required for the construction of a building and/or other changes to the land. For example, if a Heritage overlay applies, a planning permit is required to demolish and existing building. The Heritage Overlay requires Council to consider, before it grants the permit, if the demolition of the building will lessen the heritage significance of an area.

Ballarat Planning Scheme Maps are available from the Department of Sustainability and Environment Website.