How to work out if I can subdivide a large block ?

First you need to find out if you can obtain a permit – which means you need to speak to your local council.

I would also recommend reviewing your financial position and consider all of your options.
Without knowing the location or planning controls for this site, it is difficult to give specific advice. However, in many cases a 900sqm block in Melbourne’s middle suburbs can be readily subdivided into. 2, 3, or 4 lots.
By getting a specialist to complete a Preliminary Development Assessment you will be in a strong position to make a decision on what is best for that particular site. These are inexpensive and we recommend our clients get them done as a matter of course before embarking on the Strategy and Concept Plan steps.

All the best with your development,
Breece

Hi The Pups,

We were actually talking about this situation the other day in the office. The way we see it, there are several doors that a client can enter through to commence their development. You’ve correctly identified a Land surveyor, Town planning consultant or an Architect as a logical first step.
If you prefer to do it yourself, most Council’s will take the time to give you as much basic info as they can.

There’s are a couple of helpful professionals on here such as ChristianB and Ashley that will gladly help you. My company provides these services but I’m not here touting for business.

All the best with your development.

Breece

Getting back to the original question about Granny Flats particularly.

Generally it is – in planning terms at least – an accepted right for people to build a "dependant person's unit" in their backyard. As such there is often no need for planning permission as long as the guidelines are met.

These guidelines are to do with size (floor area and height) and use – they must be for a dependant person.