On this page:

Floodplain planning

Understanding flood risk is an important part of planning for resilient communities. Flood maps show where flooding may occur and the potential impacts on people, property, infrastructure and the environment. They provide valuable information to support land use planning, emergency preparedness and actions to reduce flood risk.

Flood maps do not create flood risk. They help communities understand current and future flood risk so households, businesses and governments can make informed decisions.

Flood risk ratings describe the level of risk by considering the likelihood and potential consequences of flooding. They help explain how risk varies across a floodplain and support decisions about development, emergency management and preparedness.

Flood risk can change over time as new information becomes available or conditions change, including the impacts of future climate conditions such as projected changes in rainfall, runoff and sea level rise.

Victoria's planning system uses flood maps and flood risk ratings to guide development in areas affected by flooding. This risk-based approach helps ensure land use and development responds appropriately to flood risk, supports community resilience and prioritises the protection of human life.

The best available flood information informs the application of flood planning controls, including the Flood Management Zone and Flood Management Overlay. Floodplain management authorities provide technical flood advice to support planning decisions in flood-affected areas.

See Guidance Note: Flood risk ratings for more detail on the new flood mapping requirements.

What happens if the proposed development is in a flood zone or overlay?

A planning permit may be required for subdivision, buildings or works on land affected by flood planning controls.

Applications are referred to the relevant floodplain management authority, such as a catchment management authority or Melbourne Water, for technical flood advice. The authority assesses the proposal against the flood risk and may recommend conditions or object to the application where appropriate.

Planning authorities consider this advice, together with other planning considerations, when making decisions on permit applications.

Guidelines for development in flood-affected areas provide a clear and consistent approach to assessing land use and development proposals in areas at risk of flooding. These guidelines are currently under-review.

For more information

Learn more about planning schemes.

For information, advice and guidelines on flood-related planning permits or development, visit Melbourne Water or your local CMA.

For information on planning and building reforms, visit the Department of Transport and Planning.

Page last updated: 20/10/26