Understanding Common Planning Terms and Requirements

By Glen McCulloch

When you submit a planning application to a local council, it’s assessed against local policies, zoning rules, and state codes (like ResCode – the Residential Development Standards).

There are many terms and requirements that come up though a planning permit application, so here are a few more common terms/requirements and what they mean:

ResCode

ResCode is a set of residential design standards that covers a wide array of things like overshadowing, overlooking, private open space, building height etc.

So, when a design is created it must comply with all the ResCode standards, but what are some of these standards.

Setbacks
A setback is the minimum distance a building must be from the edge of the property. Front, side, and rear setbacks ensure space, privacy, and light between buildings.

Generally, from side boundaries the minimum setback is 1m at ground level and 1.8m-2m at first floor level.

Site Coverage
This refers to the portion of the block covered by buildings (including roofed structures). Councils set limits to prevent overdevelopment and ensure enough open space is retained. Generally, this can’t be more than 60% of the size of the site

Permeability
Permeable surfaces (e.g. grass, gravel, garden beds, etc) allow water to soak into the ground. Councils require a certain amount of this are to prevent stormwater runoff and promote drainage. Generally, this can’t be more than 20% of the size of the site

Overlooking

To protect neighbours’ privacy, upper-storey windows or balconies that face into nearby yards or windows often require frosted glass, screening, or offset angles.

Overshadowing
New builds shouldn’t significantly block sunlight to neighbours’ backyards or windows, especially between 9am–3pm on the 22nd of September (equinox).

Secluded Private Open space (S.P.O.S)

A.K.A Backyard. All new developments require S.P.O.S which is generally provided in the from a backyard, which is accessed off a living area. Generally, this area needs to be 25m2 with a minimum dimension of 3m at all points

This is just a sample of the 40+ terms and requirements that must be considered when designing a new dwelling and depending on the site this could be well over 40. So, if you are looking at developing a site, it is always best to get professionals to help you obtain the best outcome.