Do eaves count when measuring building setbacks?
Yes, eaves are considered in relation to building setbacks, but they are specifically permitted to encroach into the minimum setback within certain limits. Under the current Planning (Residential Zones) Technical Specifications 2026 (NI2026-303), 14.5 – Encroachments, an eave or roof overhang with a horizontal width of no more than 600 mm is permitted to encroach into the minimum setback. This means the main building setback is not measured to the outer edge of a complying eave simply because that eave extends into the setback.
Yes, but an eave can extend into the required setback by up to 600 mm.
For example, if the wall of a house is positioned at the required setback line, an eave extending 500 mm beyond that wall into the setback can be permitted under 14.5(a).
An eave wider than the permitted 600 mm horizontal width cannot rely on this particular encroachment allowance for the excess portion.
Reference: Planning (Residential Zones) Technical Specifications 2026 (NI2026-303), 14.5(a) – Encroachments into the minimum setback - Planning (Residential Zones) Technical Specifications 2026 | PDF
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 | #496 | agrees | 27/08/2026 |