NORFI A FAST TRACK PROGRAM
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What is the NORFI program?
NORFI stands for No Request for Further Information.
It is a fast track planning permit application process aimed at eliminating the need for a further information request by filtering an application prior to lodgement, to ensure quality of information and meaningful dialogue between an applicant and Council planner. This means lodging a complete planning application that has already undergone a preliminary discussion and assessment process. It has been designed to provide benefits to all users of the planning system, including applicants, architects/designers and planning officers. The program is one of a number of fast track internal systems that Council has developed to improve the efficiency of the planning permit application process.
Why has the NORFI program been developed?
One of the most common issues discussed by applicants and within the Planning industry in general is the length of time spent (elapsed calendar days) during the town planning permit process from inception to decision. A Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) process can considerably increase this elapsed time. Therefore Council has established the NORFI program in an effort to improve the operation of the planning permit application process.
What are the benefits of the NORFI program?
Applicants can discuss proposal with a planning officer before lodgement. More certainty for applicants. Improved quality and level of documentation of applications. Rewards for applicants who lodge complete applications with Council by waiving requests for further information and fast tracking public notification. Quicker timeframes compared to the regular planning process. Possible cost benefits for the applicant.
What is the purpose of the pre-application meeting?
The pre-application meeting provides potential applicants with the opportunity to meet with Council planning officers to discuss their proposal and understand what level of information is required when submitting a complete planning permit application with Council. In addition, the meeting also provides planning officers a chance to identify key areas of concern and provide professional advice to the applicant. Based on this information, the applicant also has an opportunity to amend their proposal prior to lodgement of their planning application with Council.
What is the relationship between Council and the applicant?
Council’s role does not change as it retains full control over decision making through the formal planning permit application process. It remains the independent statutory authority responsible for determining the planning permit application. Public notice requirements under the Planning and Environment Act 1987 continue to apply. A pre-application meeting does not guarantee Council support for an application but provides an opportunity for information and documentation and/or issues and concerns to be identified before lodgement this ensures a complete application is submitted to Council for immediate assessment. Council is seeking to encourage participation from applicants and architects/designers who are prepared to participate in a positive, constructive and genuine way. The applicant should not be fixed on a pre-determined design or outcome but needs to be able to respond to advice provided during the program by the planning officer. The applicant must bring concept plans, photos, titles etc along to the pre-application meeting.