Under the NSW Low-Rise Housing Diversity Code terraces can be constructed under the fast-tracked complying development (CDC) approval process.
What are terraces?
Terraces or multi dwelling housing is a housing type comprising of three or more dwellings built on a single lot of land. Each dwelling must have access to ground level and have direct access to the street. The terraces can then be Torrens and Strata subdivided once built.
Where can terraces be built under CDC?
Terraces can be constructed as complying development on a lot in Zone RU5, Zone R1, Zone R2 or Zone R3, and where the housing type of Multi dwelling housing is listed as permitted with consent. Multi-dwelling housing is permissible in most R3 medium density zones in NSW, however, some councils will allow multi dwelling housing in R2 zoning.
For example, under the Wollongong LEP 2009 and Shellharbour LEP 2013, Kiama LEP 2011, Multi dwelling housing is permissible in Zone R2
This information can be obtained on the relevant council’s Local Environmental Plan, or a property’s Planning Certificate 10.7
What is the minimum size land required for terrace development?
The minimum lot size to build terraces varies in each Local Government Area. This is stipulated in the council’s LEP. However, in the absence of a specified minimum lot size, then the minimum land size for the development of terraces is 600m2.
Additionally, the land must have a minimum width of 21 metres measured at the building line. Corner blocks are often more suitable for terrace developments because of this minimum lot width requirement.
Other considerations
Stormwater
A down sloping property where the slope of the land falls to the back may have issues in draining rainwater. Some councils prohibit charged or pumped lines to return stormwater back up to the street, necessitating the potential requirement for an easement across neighbouring properties.
Vehicular access
A driveway will need to be constructed for each new terrace, and approval from local council will be required. If there are street trees on the nature strip or other road obstacles such as speed humps or bus stops, then a shared vehicular access may be considered to provide car access to the garage of each dwelling.
Subdivisions
In order to facilitate Torrens subdivision, the minimum lot size for subdividing must be 200m2.
For Strata subdivision, the minimum strata ground floor area of each dwelling must be 180m2.
Should you require further information on the Low-Rise Housing Diversity Code and the Design Guidelines, please follow the links below.
https://legislation.nsw.gov.au/view/html/inforce/current/epi-2008-0572
Should you own property or be considering the purchase of a property with a view to development, we invite you to contact us today for an obligation-free consultation.