Renovation vs
Understanding council approvals and regulations for duplex builds in Sydney
Renovation vs
Understanding council approvals and regulations for duplex builds in Sydney
Can I build a duplex on my land?Find out the answer to this question and more…
Building a duplex in Sydney gives you all the benefits of a brand-new home as well as excellent capital gains or rental income potential. However, many land owners approach us with questions about whether they can build a duplex on their land, what the approval process involves and duplex land size requirements.
This guide provides an overview of the key requirements for duplex developments, including duplex approvals in Sydney. These can change from time to time, so have a read to familiarise yourself with how it all works, then contact us and we can share more specific details.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Understanding duplex approvals in Sydney
UNDERSTANDING DUPLEX APPROVALS IN SYDNEY
UNDERSTANDING DUPLEX APPROVALS IN SYDNEY
Want to know if you can build a duplex on your land and what type of duplex you can build? It comes down to location, size and a few other factors.
Once you know if you can build a duplex on your land, the next step is to get approval for your plans. Keep reading to understand how that works.
ZONING REGULATIONS FOR DUPLEXES IN SYDNEY
ZONING REGULATIONS FOR DUPLEXES IN SYDNEY
In Sydney, duplex constructions are primarily influenced by zoning laws, which dictate the types of structures permissible in specific areas. The main residential zones that allow duplexes include:
- R2 Low-Density Residential: This zoning allows for dual occupancies, including duplexes, semi-detached, and terraced houses. Lot size requirements are typically between 400 sqm and 700 sqm.
- R3 Medium Density Residential: This zoning permits dual occupancies, townhouses, terraces, villas and apartments. The minimum lot size is generally 300 sqm, with developments needing to align with what’s referred to as the neighbourhood's ‘character’. A height limit of 8.5 metres for new developments typically applies.
- R4 High-Density Residential: This accommodates residential flat buildings, dual occupancies, multi-dwelling housing and apartments. The minimum lot size is 300 sqm, with building heights permitted up to 15 metres. Higher density developments require good access to transport and services.
Not every suburb in Sydney allows duplex developments under zoning regulations. However, things change frequently, so it’s worth double-checking. What’s more, if a duplex isn’t suitable for your land, you may be able to explore different options, such as a dual living home or a more standard knock down rebuild.
Contact Dixon Homes Sydney to find out what’s possible for your block in Sydney, on the Central Coast, in Newcastle or on the South Coast.
DUPLEX DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
DUPLEX DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
Once you have figured out if you are in a location where new duplex developments are allowed, you need to make sure your block of land meets the requirements of local development control plans.
For duplexes and other homes, every council sets restrictions around minimum lot size and the width of the block. There may also be a requirement that cars can be parked on site instead of on the street after your project is complete, and rules about where the home sits on the block, height restrictions etc.
Development standards will affect whether or not you can build a duplex on your property, and will influence the design you use. At Dixon Homes Sydney, once we have confirmed that your block meets duplex land size requirements, we can chat to you about designs that will meet development standards.
DUPLEX APPROVALS IN SYDNEY
DUPLEX APPROVALS IN SYDNEY
The regulations around duplex design approvals are also changing as the state government moves to address Sydney’s housing shortage.
Once you have confirmed you can build a duplex and come up with the plans to submit to council, there are two primary approval pathways:
- Development Application (DA): A formal application submitted to your local council, assessed against the council's Local Environmental Plan and Development Control Plan. This process considers factors like design, impact on neighbouring properties, and compliance with local policies.
A DA can take 3-6 months to be approved and cost in excess of $30,000. - Complying Development Certificate (CDC): This is a more streamlined approval process for straightforward developments that meet specific criteria under the State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP). To qualify, your proposed duplex must comply with relevant planning controls and development standards.
Being eligible for a CDC is a good thing. It can usually be approved within a few weeks and the cost is lower than a DA.
To find out how to ensure your duplex is eligible for a CDC rather than a DA, reach out to our team today. We have extensive experience in this area and can explain how to take the more streamlined, cost-effective route.
CAN I BUILD A DUPLEX ON MY LAND?
CAN I BUILD A DUPLEX ON MY LAND?
To determine if your land is suitable for a duplex, consider the following steps:
- Check zoning: Verify your property's zoning classification and find out dual occupancy is permitted. You can use the NSW Government’s tool to get started.
- Assess lot size and dimensions: Check your plans so you know the size (again, this tool should show you the lot size).
- Consult council regulations: Review your council's DCP for specific development standards applicable to duplex constructions.
Confused? It takes practice to know what to look for. To fast-track your duplex build, request a free feasibility report from Dixon Homes Sydney.
WHY CHOOSE DIXON HOMES SYDNEY FOR A DUPLEX PROJECT
WHY CHOOSE DIXON HOMES SYDNEY FOR A DUPLEX PROJECT
Dixon Homes has been building in Australia for over 65 years. We keep costs under control by avoiding expensive display homes and providing a more personalised level of service.
Our promise to you:
- Fixed price means fixed price: once you have signed off on your design and quote, you won’t pay more.
- You get more for less: We understand how to give you better value for money
- Lifetime structural warranty: So you have peace of mind
We have a range of duplex designs to choose from, or you can design from scratch.
Ready to build a duplex on your block? Confused about approvals and land size requirements? Contact Dixon Homes Sydney today.
About Ed Campbell
With a decade of industry experience, Ed is a leading authority in duplex development.
Renowned for his expertise in Complying Development Certificate (CDC) compliance, Ed's track record and deep understanding of regulations make him a trusted advisor in the field. Clients rely on Ed’s guidance and dedication to ensure successful outcomes in every project.
Find out more.
With a decade of industry experience, Ed is a leading authority in duplex development.
Renowned for his expertise in Complying Development Certificate (CDC) compliance, Ed's track record and deep understanding of regulations make him a trusted advisor in the field. Clients rely on Ed’s guidance and dedication to ensure successful outcomes in every project.
Find out more.
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