Change of Use Applications Melbourne
Commercial Permit Specialists

Change of Use Applications Melbourne

Opening a new business or relocating to a new commercial premises in Melbourne often requires a Change of Use planning permit. Under Victorian planning schemes, changing how a building is used—such as converting a retail shop into a medical clinic, or an office into a licensed restaurant—frequently triggers a formal permit requirement.

At Leawarra Town Planning, we specialise in preparing and securing Change of Use approvals. We understand the specific planning triggers, car parking requirements, and amenity considerations that councils assess, allowing us to deliver a fast, hassle-free approval for your business.

Common Change of Use Scenarios in Melbourne

A Change of Use application is required when the proposed land use falls under a different category in the planning scheme's land use terms, or when specific overlay conditions trigger a permit.

We regularly secure Change of Use permits for a wide range of business transitions across metropolitan Melbourne.

Medical & Allied Health: Converting offices or retail spaces into dental clinics, physiotherapy suites, or medical centres.
Hospitality & Licensed Premises: Converting retail premises into cafes, restaurants, bars, or boutique breweries.
Gyms & Fitness Studios: Securing permits for personal training studios, yoga spaces, and 24/7 commercial gyms.
Office to Retail (and vice versa): Navigating zoning requirements to transition commercial spaces to meet market demands.

Key Assessment Criteria for Change of Use Permits

When assessing a Change of Use application, council statutory planners look closely at how the new business activity will impact the surrounding area.

Our planning reports proactively address these key criteria to demonstrate that your business will operate harmoniously within its local context.

Car Parking & Traffic: Assessing whether the new use triggers a requirement for additional car parking, and preparing parking reduction justifications.
Hours of Operation: Justifying commercial operating hours to ensure they do not impact nearby residential amenity.
Acoustic & Odour Impacts: Managing potential noise from gym equipment or commercial kitchen exhaust systems.
Waste Management & Deliveries: Demonstrating efficient commercial waste disposal and safe loading/unloading arrangements.

Change of Use Experts

We specialise in securing fast Change of Use planning permits for retail, medical, hospitality, and office conversions.

100% Local Compliance
Arborist & Heritage Coordination
VCAT Advocacy & Appeals

Need a Change of Use Permit?

Our commercial planning team will assess your site and prepare a robust application to secure your business permit.

Our Service Areas

We operate across all of metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria.

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Ready to Transform Your Property Vision?

Contact us today for a free consultation. Our experienced team will evaluate your proposal, identify potential challenges, and provide expert guidance to help you achieve the best possible planning outcome.

24hr Response
1000+ Projects
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