Does the increased tree canopy cover requirement apply to me?
Only if you are proposing multi-unit housing. Specification 19.3 applies to multi-unit housing and requires 20% canopy cover in RZ1 and RZ2, up from 15% in the 2025 specifications, and 25% in RZ3, RZ4 and RZ5. For a single dwelling, the applicable requirement is tree planting under specification 19.2, not canopy cover.
According to Specification 19.3 of the Planning (Residential Zones) Technical Specifications 2026 (NI2026-303), the increased tree canopy cover requirement applies only to multi-unit housing developments. The requirement is for 20% canopy cover in RZ1 and RZ2 zones and 25% canopy cover in RZ3, RZ4 and RZ5 zones at maturity. All new and existing trees must contribute to the required canopy cover, and all new trees must be located within deep soil zones.
Reference: Planning (Residential Zones) Technical Specifications 2026 (NI2026-303)) - Assessment Outcome 19 - Planning (Residential Zones) Technical Specifications 2026
Link on the answer: https://www.legislation.act.gov.au/View/ni/2026-303/current/PDF/2026-303.PDF
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| Dual Occupancy Q&A | #202 | agrees | 30/07/2026 |