Last updated: April 2026
Planning Zones & Controls in Preston
Preston is located within the City of Darebin local government area. The following planning zones and overlays are commonly found in this area.
Planning Zones
These zones are commonly applied to properties in Preston and the broader City of Darebin area.
Overlays
Properties in Preston may be affected by one or more of the following overlays, which add extra planning controls on top of the zone.
Planning Notes
Heritage Overlay in Northcote, Thornbury, and Fairfield heritage precincts. DDO controls along High Street and Plenty Road corridors. Preston is a designated major activity centre with significant development potential. NCO in established residential areas.
City of Darebin
Preston falls within the City of Darebin. Visit the council page for more information about planning controls, statistics, and contact details.
What can you do in Preston?
Find out exactly what planning controls apply to your property in Preston and whether you need a planning permit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planning zone is Preston in?
Properties in Preston are commonly located in the Neighbourhood Residential Zone (NRZ), General Residential Zone (GRZ), Residential Growth Zone (RGZ), Commercial 1 Zone (C1Z). The exact zone for your property depends on its specific location within Preston. You can check your property's zone using VicPlan or our Property Snapshot tool.
Do I need a planning permit in Preston?
Whether you need a planning permit in Preston depends on the zone your property is in, any overlays that apply, and the type of work you are proposing. Most new dwellings, extensions, subdivisions, and changes of use require a permit. Some minor works may be exempt depending on the zone and overlay controls. Use our free tools to check your specific situation.
How do I find my property's planning zone?
You can find your property's planning zone by searching your address on VicPlan (planning.vic.gov.au/maps), the Victorian Government's official planning map. VicPlan shows the zone, overlays, and other planning controls that apply to any property in Victoria.