Are there requirements for privacy between the two dwellings?
Yes. Dual occupancies must address privacy and overlooking, particularly around windows, balconies, decks and private open spaces. The design may need appropriate orientation, separation, screening, fencing or landscaping to protect the privacy of both dwellings and neighbouring properties.
Yes. A dual occupancy must be designed to provide appropriate privacy between the two dwellings and from neighbouring properties.
The current ACT residential requirements address privacy through the location and design of windows, balconies, decks and private open spaces, particularly where they could create direct overlooking. Depending on the layout, the design may need to use measures such as building orientation, separation, privacy screening, fencing, landscaping, louvres or other architectural screening to limit overlooking.
The Missing Middle Housing Design Guide also requires privacy to be considered when locating balconies and private open spaces. These areas should be positioned to minimise overlooking of neighbouring private open spaces, with landscaping, fencing and integrated architectural screening used where appropriate.
The exact privacy treatment required will depend on the position, level and orientation of each dwelling and its relationship to neighbouring properties.
Reference: Planning (Residential Zones) Technical Specifications 2026 (NI2026-303) - https://www.legislation.act.gov.au/View/ni/2026-303/current/PDF/2026-303.PDF & Planning (Missing Middle Housing) Design Guide 2026 (NI2026-312) – Section 5.2C Privacy and Outlook -https://www.planning.act.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0020/3092411/ACT-Missing-Middle-Housing-Design-Guide.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 | #347 | agrees | 11/08/2026 |