Green Wedge ZoneGWZ
Last updated: April 2026
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Purpose
To protect metropolitan Melbourne's green wedge areas from inappropriate development while providing for agriculture, conservation, and resource-based uses.
Key Points
- Prevents urban development on green wedge land
- Allows agriculture, conservation, and limited rural-type uses
- Strict controls on subdivision and dwelling construction
- Part of Melbourne's urban growth boundary strategy
Use Tables — Section 1, 2 & 3
Section 1 — No Permit Needed
- Agriculture (most types)
- Dwelling (one per lot, subject to conditions)
- Home occupation
- Informal outdoor recreation
Section 2 — Permit Required
- Group accommodation
- Bed and breakfast
- Rural industry
- Place of worship
Section 3 — Prohibited
- Industry (most types)
- Office
- Retail premises (most types)
- Warehouse
Councils Where This Zone Is Common
Related Rural Zones
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a green wedge?
Green wedges are non-urban areas outside Melbourne's Urban Growth Boundary that are protected from suburban development. They provide agricultural land, conservation areas, recreation, and landscape buffers between Melbourne's growth corridors.
Can I build a house in the Green Wedge Zone?
One dwelling per lot is generally permitted, subject to conditions in the schedule (such as minimum lot size). However, subdivision to create additional lots is very restricted, and dwellings must not compromise agricultural or conservation values.
Can the GWZ be rezoned to residential?
Green wedge land is protected by state policy and the Planning and Environment Act. Rezoning requires a planning scheme amendment and is strongly resisted unless the land is within or adjacent to the Urban Growth Boundary. It is very rare for GWZ land to be rezoned.
Official Planning Provisions
View the full provisions for the Green Wedge Zone (Clause 35.04) on the Victorian Planning Provisions website.
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