How is site coverage calculated for a dual occupancy?
For a dual occupancy, site coverage considers the total area of the block covered by buildings and relevant structures, including both dwellings. It includes more than just the enclosed ground-floor areas.
Think of site coverage as how much of the block is physically covered by buildings or covered structures when viewed from above.
For a dual occupancy, the following are specifically identified as included:
- Balconies
- Basements
- Roofed structures such as carports, terraces, pergolas, patios, decks and garden sheds
- Cantilevered upper-floor elements
The following are specifically excluded:
- Awnings and eaves
- Unroofed decks, terraces, pergolas and patios
- Swimming pools
- Hard surfaces such as retaining walls and driveways
The lists are not exhaustive.
Site coverage is measured from the external faces of exterior and basement walls. For balconies, terraces, pergolas and similar structures, the furthest extent of the structure is generally used.
Reference: ACT Planning Advisory Note 08 – Working out gross floor area and site coverage - https://www.planning.act.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0011/2323001/an08-working-out-gross-floor-area-site-coverage.pdf
Link on the answer: https://www.planning.act.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0011/2323001/an08-working-out-gross-floor-area-site-coverage.pdf
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| Dual Occupancy Q&A | #455 | agrees | 18/08/2026 |