Has the building height limit changed for our zone?
The main change is that the 2025 rules controlled buildings mainly by storeys, while the 2026 rules control buildings by maximum height in metres and provide different limits for single dwellings and multi-unit housing. Zone 2025 Rule 2026 Rule RZ1 8.5m 8.5m RZ2 8.5m Single dwelling: 8.5m Multi-unit: 10.5m RZ3 2 storeys Single dwelling: 10.5m Multi-unit: 14m RZ4 3 storeys Single dwelling: 10.5m Multi-unit: 21m RZ5 3–6 storeys depending on location Single dwelling: 10.5m Multi-unit: 24.5m In summary: The 2026 rules replace simple storey limits with measurable height limits. Multi-unit developments generally receive higher height allowances. The changes provide more flexibility for medium and higher-density housing while maintaining lower heights for single dwellings.
The ACT building height rules have changed significantly between the 2025 and 2026 planning provisions.
The 2025 rules mainly controlled building height by the maximum number of storeys, with some zones using a maximum height in metres. The 2026 rules move to a height-based system measured in metres above datum ground level and introduce different height limits depending on whether the development is single dwelling housing or multi-unit housing.
This change provides more flexibility for higher-density housing while maintaining lower height limits for individual houses.
Comparison of Building Height Rules| Residential Zone | 2025 Rule | 2026 Rule |
|---|---|---|
| RZ1 | Maximum 8.5m above datum ground level | Maximum 8.5m above datum ground level |
| RZ2 | Maximum 8.5m above datum ground level | Single dwelling housing: 8.5m Multi-unit housing: 10.5m |
| RZ3 | Maximum 2 storeys | Single dwelling housing: 10.5m Multi-unit housing: 14m |
| RZ4 | Maximum 3 storeys | Single dwelling housing: 10.5m Multi-unit housing: 21m |
| RZ5 | Maximum: • 3 storeys near RZ1/RZ2/RZ3 boundaries • 3 storeys near CFZ, PRZ1 or PRZ2 boundaries • 4 storeys near RZ4 boundaries • 6 storeys in other locations |
Single dwelling housing: 10.5m Multi-unit housing: 24.5m |
Reference: Reference: Planning (Residential Zones) Technical Specifications 2026 (NI2026-303), Assessment Outcome 14.1- 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
Where this question is kept
| Dual Occupancy Q&A | #222 | agrees | 02/08/2026 |