Council issues fines to those unwilling to do the right thing

Published on 16 April 2026

Hepburn Shire Council has recently taken action against landowners breaching planning regulations and related permits.

Mayor, Cr Tony Clark, said that Council will take action to ensure compliance with regulations and permits wherever possible.

“Pushing proceedings this far is rare in town planning but Council is committed to ensuring residents comply with regulations and business is carried out in a way that does not unreasonably impact the community, Shire’s landscapes and way of life.”

One landowner has continued to breach the Shire’s regulations by storing many more wrecked vehicles on their land than allowed under their permit despite a Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) order to comply in 2023.

Last month, officers concluded a three-day trial at VCAT asking for the tribunal to declare the landowner ‘in contempt’ of the 2023 order, a serious charge allowing VCAT to impose substantial fines or prison time.

Similarly, two Daylesford landowners are facing penalties of up to $70,000 and $6,000 respectively, for the illegal removal of vegetation.

“Everyone has a responsibility to be considerate and respectful, while most property owners do the right thing, Council will act on its enforcement obligations where it determines there has been a breach to protect our community and our Shire. While Council would like more, we have a small allocation of resources aimed at planning compliance and if a breach is discovered, officers will take action,” said Cr Clark.

Council’s website provides information on how to report a suspected breach as well as more information about enforcement processes.