Businesses on notice for illegal external roller blinds

Published on 09 December 2024

Council is investigating and following up on illegally installed external roller shutter blinds in our shopping centres, particularly around Oakleigh and Huntingdale.

A Planning Permit is required to install external roller shutter blinds, and they also generally overhang over the footpath, which is Council land. These external blinds are discouraged, as they make a place feel unsafe, prevent light spill from inside a premises and are often targeted by graffiti.

Internal fittings can provide the same security, are more aesthetically pleasing and help keep our shopping centres feeling safe at night. Council investigates illegal works including external roller shutters installed without a permit.

If you are planning on installing roller shutters, we encourage you to phone us on 9518 3555 or visit the Civic Centre and have a discussion with our Planning team on what might be appropriate, and to make sure that you have the proper approvals in place.

A business can receive a fine and enforcement through the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT), or Magistrates’ Court where there could be a conviction or further penalties imposed. 

Council will also seek costs in all cases that are presented to a magistrates’ court or VCAT.

For more information about planning permits, please go to Do I need a Planning Permit?  or phone the Planning team on 9518 3555.