Build on flood-prone land

Some areas of Darebin are designated as flood-prone. In these cases, you may need a flooding application before your building permit can continue.

Flood map update - May 2023

As of 12 May 2023 Darebin City Council is using a new flood map.  

It provides the best, latest information for Council and the community to understand flood risk for properties across Darebin.

Properties in the new flood zone are considered likely to flood in a high-intensity storm, at a level considered a 1% chance of happening in any given year. However, storms of this intensity are not cyclical. They may happen more than once in a year, or many years may pass without one.

While high-intensity storms at this level are a low percentage chance of occurring, it's important to understand flood risks, and use the knowledge to help reduce potential impacts.

We are using the new flood map to:

  • identify properties at risk.
  • advise people with current building/planning permit applications in the new flood zone.
  • help people prepare for building works.
The new flood map adopts the latest Melbourne Water flood specifications, and uses a more advanced flood modelling tool that includes the effects of climate change and urbanisation.
 
To find out more you can contact our planning and building teams:

 

Application type Contact

Existing planning applications

Phone 03 8470 8470

Email planning@darebin.vic.gov.au

Existing building applications

Phone 03 8470 8899

Email building@darebin.vic.gov.au

New planning or building permit applications

If you wish to lodge a new planning or building permit application and you're unsure whether a property is located on flood-prone land, the first step is to check via a property information certificate 51 (2). This document provides a statement of whether the property is subject to termites, within a bushfire area, in an alpine area, within designated land, or subject to flooding.

51 (2) property certificates are available through our online portal below. Please note you must be logged in, and a registered user to order.

Visit our eServices portal for 51 (2) property certificates

Once you have this information then you may then decide to lodge an application for a flood report and consent.

Before you lodge your flooding application, please speak to the building surveyor you engaged for building permit, as exemptions may apply.


How to apply for a flood report and consent

If your property is deemed to be flood-prone then under regulation 153 of the Building Regulations 2018, we may issue consent to build over the flood-prone area. You can apply online.

You'll need:

  • Details of the relevant building surveyor for the building permit
  • Current copy of title
  • Land survey plan showing site levels to Australian Height Datum (AHD)
  • Floor plans and elevations showing levels to AHD
  • Melbourne Water flood level referral or a flood certificate

Apply for a flood report and consent


What does flood-prone mean?

Flood-prone means an area is considered likely to flood in a high-intensity storm, at a level considered a 1% chance of happening in any given year. Storms of this intensity are not cyclical. They may happen more than once in a year, or many years may pass without one.

To find out if your land is subject to flooding from our drainage systems, please call us on 03 8470 8899 or email building@darebin.vic.gov.au.

More information

Phone: 03 8470 8899
Email: building@darebin.vic.gov.au