More homes and faster processes
We’ve updated the Small Lot Housing Code for better design standards and so homes can be built on lots less than 100 square metres without a permit.
The majority of new houses built in Melbourne’s growth areas are large, detached family homes. This housing suits many households, but we need to support affordable housing choices for increasing numbers of smaller families, single person households, aged housing needs.
By providing Victorians with more flexibility on housing designs on smaller lots, we’re making it easier to open the door to a home. We’re also making the housing design process easier and more efficient for builders, developers and local councils.
Small Lot Housing Code
We want to make it easier to build more homes on smaller parcels of land in growth areas in Melbourne and regional cities.
In November 2024, we updated the Small Lot Housing Code (Updated Code) to allow homes to be built on lots less than 100 square metres without needing a permit. This includes building townhouses on skinnier longer blocks.
We also introduced improved design standards for lots under 300 square metres to ensure homes are better suited to modern living – including larger balconies, more windows facing the street, and more space for trees and greenery.
These updates aim to increase housing diversity and affordability, making it easier for smaller families and single-person households to find homes that meet their needs.
To allow time for adjustment, the updated Code will have a two-year transition period. Developers can begin using the new standards immediately, but the current code will remain in effect until the end of 2026.
Read more about the updated Small Lot Housing Code through the Victorian Planning Authority(opens in a new window).
For more information about the Small Lot Housing Code, email your enquiry to info@vpa.vic.gov.au(opens in a new window) or call (03) 9651 9600.
Where does the Small Lot Housing Code apply?
The Small Lot Housing Code applies to residential and mixed-use Precinct Structure Plans in Melbourne’s Urban Growth Zone, as well as special purpose zones in Cardinia, Casey, Hume, Melton, Mitchell, Whittlesea, and Wyndham, Geelong, Ballarat, Baw Baw, Cardinia and Knox.
These updates aim to increase housing diversity and affordability, making it easier for smaller families and single-person households to find homes that meet their needs.
Changes to Standards in the Code
The Small Lot Housing Code provides Standards for lots nominated as Type A, B and C. Lot Types are nominated on the plan of subdivision, prior to its certification.
The updated Small Lot Housing Code introduces a new set of Standards known as Type C Standards which are aimed at facilitating dwellings on lots as low as 75 square metres.
Type C Standards were created to meet the increasing demand of delivering diverse housing outcomes on smaller lots, while maintaining streetscape amenity.
Some changes have also been made to Type A and B Standards following feedback from Victorians. Some of these Standards can be implemented immediately without impacting current housing designs compliance, but some modified Standards may result in non-compliance.
Learn more about the updated Type A and B Standards, and the new Type C Standards in the updated Small Lot Housing Code(opens in a new window).
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