Developer 3D model submission guidelines

As part of the Virtual Merri-bek project, Council has captured a detailed, computer generated 3D model of Merri-bek. This detailed 3D model of Merri-bek is used as part of Councils internal planning permit application process so Council officers can assess 3D models of proposed developments in context.

Applicants may be asked to submit 3D models of proposed developments at several key stages of the development application process to assist with this process. With access to this 3D data, Council officers can assess and verify proposed developments in context using a variety of 3D tools and software. These tools include Councils 3D GIS system, custom developed My Virtual Merri-bek VR tools and Council's My Virtual Merri-bek iOS and Android app.

Why submit 3D models?

With access to 3D models of proposed developments, Council officers are able to make more informed decisions about the impact and contribution these developments will have on the area. This has the potential to speed up the application assessment process and provide better outcomes for applicants Council and the community.

If 3D models are not submitted when requested by Council, the proposed development will be modelled by Council staff using the submitted plans. While Council endeavours to ensures proposed developments are modelled as accurately as possible, the 3D modelling skill level of council staff and resources available may vary significantly. As a result, proposed developments which are modelled by Council staff may be simplified or misinterpreted and potentially cause delays in the application process.

3D model submission stages:

Model submission 1 - Pre-application submission:

A minimum LOD1 model which reflects the architectural plans at the pre-application stage. This 3D model is assessed by Council's internal planners and urban designers as part of the pre-application process and may be used for reference during the pre-application meeting.

Model submission 2 - Application submission:

A minimum LOD2 model which reflects the architectural plans at the application stage. This 3D model is assessed by Council's internal planners and urban designers as part of the application process.

Model Submission 3 - Application advertisement:

A LOD3 model which reflects the architectural plans at the application advertisement stage. This 3D model is assessed by Council's internal planners and urban designers as part of the application process. This 3D model may also be made available in a view-only format to the community during the public advertisement period via Moreland City Council's My Virtual Merri-bek 3D viewer, My Virtual Merri-bek VR tool and My Virtual Merri-bek iOS and Android apps with prior permission and IP signoff from the applicant.

Model Submission 4 - Application approval:

A LOD3 model which reflects the architectural plans at the application approval stage.This 3D model will be integrated into Councils 3D base model of Merri-bek once construction has finalised to ensure Councils base context model is up to date and assist with future developments and planning within Merri-bek Council.

Note: Additional models may be requested if substantial design changes are made to applications during the approval process. What is deemed substantial is up to the discretion of Council.

3D model LOD (level of detail) definitions:

This model should represent the basic massing and does not need to include major exterior details such as balconies, windows, doors, textures or material detailing.	This model should include exterior details including rooftop details, balconies, windows and doors but does not need to include texture or material detailing.	This model should include exterior details including rooftop details, balconies, windows, doors, texture and material detailing.