Farming ZoneFZ
Last updated: April 2026
Purpose
To provide for the use of land for agriculture and to ensure that non-agricultural uses, including dwellings, do not adversely affect the use of land for agriculture.
Key Points
- Primary purpose is to protect farming activity
- One dwelling generally permitted per lot; additional dwellings require a permit
- Minimum lot sizes for subdivision set by schedule (commonly 40+ hectares)
- Non-agricultural uses assessed for their impact on farming
Use Tables — Section 1, 2 & 3
Section 1 — No Permit Needed
- Agriculture (most types, excluding intensive animal husbandry)
- Dwelling (one per lot)
- Home occupation
- Informal outdoor recreation
- Rural store
Section 2 — Permit Required
- Group accommodation
- Intensive animal husbandry
- Rural industry
- Winery
- Bed and breakfast
Section 3 — Prohibited
- Cinema-based entertainment facility
- Major sports and recreation facility
- Retail premises (most types)
Councils Where This Zone Is Common
Related Rural Zones
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build a house on Farming Zone land?
One dwelling per lot is generally a Section 1 (as-of-right) use in the FZ. However, a planning permit may be required for the buildings and works, and the schedule may impose conditions. Building a second dwelling requires a planning permit.
Can I subdivide Farming Zone land?
Subdivision requires a planning permit and is very difficult. The schedule sets a minimum lot size (commonly 40 hectares or more) and the application must demonstrate that subdivision will not compromise agricultural productivity.
Can I run a tourism business on FZ land?
Some tourism uses are possible with a planning permit. Bed and breakfast, group accommodation, and rural industry (including farm gate sales) are Section 2 uses. The use must be compatible with surrounding agricultural activity.
What agricultural activities are as-of-right in the FZ?
Most forms of agriculture are Section 1 uses, including cropping, grazing, horticulture, and similar activities. Intensive animal husbandry (feedlots, piggeries, broiler farms) requires a planning permit as a Section 2 use.
Official Planning Provisions
View the full provisions for the Farming Zone (Clause 35.07) on the Victorian Planning Provisions website.
Open VPP Clause 35.07Need a Planning Assessment for the FZ?
Find out if your proposed use or development is allowed in the Farming Zone.