How are private open space requirements determined?
Under the Planning (Residential Zones) Technical Specifications 2026 (NI2026-303), private open space requirements are determined by the type of residential development, residential zone, block size, and, where applicable, dwelling size. Single dwellings (Specification 11.1): The minimum private open space is based on block size: Large blocks: 60% of the block area. Mid-sized blocks: 40% of the block area. Compact blocks: 30% of the block area. Multi-unit housing in RZ1 and RZ2 (Specification 11.2): At least 30% of the total site area must be allocated to communal open space (Specification 11.4), principal private open space (Specification 11.6), and/or private open space with a minimum dimension of 4 metres. Multi-unit housing in RZ3, RZ4 and RZ5 (Specification 11.3): For developments with fewer than 20 dwellings: Apartment developments must provide at least 20% of the total site area as communal open space with a minimum dimension of 2.5 metres and direct access from common entries and pathways. Non-apartment developments must provide at least 20% of the total site area as communal open space and/or private open space with a minimum dimension of 2.5 metres.
Under the Planning (Residential Zones) Technical Specifications 2026 (NI2026-303), private open space requirements are determined by the type of residential development, zone, block size, and, in some cases, dwelling size.
Specifically:
- Single dwellings (Specification 11.1): The minimum private open space is based on the block size:
- Large blocks: 60% of the block area.
- Mid-sized blocks: 40% of the block area.
- Compact blocks: 30% of the block area.
- Multi-unit housing in RZ1 and RZ2 zones (Specification 11.2): At least 30% of the total site area must be allocated to one or more of the following:
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Communal open space meets specification 11.4 (of the planning instrument) ;and/or
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Principal private open space meets specification 11.6 (of the planning instrument) ; and/or
- Private open space with a minimum dimension of 4 metres.
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- Multi-unit housing in RZ3, RZ4 and RZ5 zones (Specification 11.3): The required open space depends on the number and type of dwellings. For developments with fewer than 20 dwellings:
- Apartment developments must provide at least 20% of the total site area as communal open space.
- Non-apartment developments must provide at least 20% of the total site area as communal open space and/or private open space meeting the specified minimum dimensions.
Planning (Residential Zones) Technical Specifications 2026 (NI2026-303), Assessment Outcome 11 - 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 | #297 | agrees | 30/07/2026 |