Draft Residential Development Policy

The new draft policy aims to improve customer experience, reduce costs and delays for residents, and encourage investment in housing and property improvements, outlined in policy information.

The draft policy modifies the following requirements of the Residential Design Codes Volume 1, Part B (R-Codes):

  • Street setbacks
  • Lot boundary setbacks
  • Outdoor living areas
  • Landscaping
  • Building heights
  • Setback of garages and carports
  • Garage width
  • Sight lines
  • Vehicle access
  • Site works
  • Outbuildings

A summary of the modifications can be downloaded here

The new policy will only apply to planning approvals. Separate approvals under building or health legislation are still required.

Get involved

Public consultation was undertaken for 22 days from Thursday, 16 July 2026 to Friday, 7 August 2026. 10 submissions were received all in support of the draft policy.

Next Steps

The draft policy, along with all submissions, is scheduled to be considered by Council at its meeting to be held on Tuesday 22 September 2026


The new draft policy aims to improve customer experience, reduce costs and delays for residents, and encourage investment in housing and property improvements, outlined in policy information.

The draft policy modifies the following requirements of the Residential Design Codes Volume 1, Part B (R-Codes):

  • Street setbacks
  • Lot boundary setbacks
  • Outdoor living areas
  • Landscaping
  • Building heights
  • Setback of garages and carports
  • Garage width
  • Sight lines
  • Vehicle access
  • Site works
  • Outbuildings

A summary of the modifications can be downloaded here

The new policy will only apply to planning approvals. Separate approvals under building or health legislation are still required.

Get involved

Public consultation was undertaken for 22 days from Thursday, 16 July 2026 to Friday, 7 August 2026. 10 submissions were received all in support of the draft policy.

Next Steps

The draft policy, along with all submissions, is scheduled to be considered by Council at its meeting to be held on Tuesday 22 September 2026


Page last updated: 18 Aug 2026, 11:38 AM