Last updated: April 2026

Planning Zones & Controls in Somerville

Somerville is located within the Mornington Peninsula Shire 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 Somerville and the broader Mornington Peninsula Shire area.

Overlays

Properties in Somerville may be affected by one or more of the following overlays, which add extra planning controls on top of the zone.

Planning Notes

Extensive Green Wedge Zone and Farming Zone protect rural and agricultural land. Environmental and landscape overlays are widespread. Heritage Overlay in Sorrento and Portsea. Township character with limited growth capacity in most areas. BMO in hillside areas.

Mornington Peninsula Shire

Somerville falls within the Mornington Peninsula Shire. Visit the council page for more information about planning controls, statistics, and contact details.

What can you do in Somerville?

Find out exactly what planning controls apply to your property in Somerville and whether you need a planning permit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What planning zone is Somerville in?

Properties in Somerville are commonly located in the General Residential Zone (GRZ), Neighbourhood Residential Zone (NRZ), Low Density Residential Zone (LDRZ), Green Wedge Zone (GWZ). The exact zone for your property depends on its specific location within Somerville. You can check your property's zone using VicPlan or our Property Snapshot tool.

Do I need a planning permit in Somerville?

Whether you need a planning permit in Somerville 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.

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