Is there a maximum floor area for each dwelling in dual occupancy?
Not generally. There is no single maximum floor area that applies to each dwelling in every dual occupancy. The allowable size depends on the zone and the applicable planning controls.
A specific 120 m² dwelling-size limit is relevant to certain RZ1 dual occupancies. For example, where an RZ1 dual occupancy on a standard block is proposed for unit titling, the applicable subdivision provisions require the block to be at least 800 m² and one of the dwellings to have a maximum dwelling size of 120 m². The 120 m² limit applies to one dwelling, not both dwellings.
The size of the overall dual occupancy is also affected by other applicable planning controls, including site coverage, setbacks and building height.
Reference: ACT Territory Plan, Part F01 Subdivision Policy – Assessment Requirement 14 – Territory Plan 2023 | Notifiable instruments
Short Answer
Not generally. There is no single maximum floor area for each dwelling in every dual occupancy. However, for certain RZ1 unit-titled dual occupancies on standard blocks of at least 800 m², one dwelling must be no more than 120 m² (excluding the garage).
Detailed Explanation
There is no universal maximum floor area applying individually to both dwellings in every dual occupancy. However, specific dwelling-size requirements apply in particular circumstances.
For an RZ1 dual occupancy on a standard block proposed for subdivision under the Unit Titles Act 2001, the Subdivision Policy requires a minimum 800 m² block and one dwelling to have a maximum dwelling size of 120 m². For this requirement, dwelling size is measured to the outside face of external walls, including the internal wall between the living area and garage, but excludes the garage.
No minimum block size does not remove the need for planning assessment.
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