Does the age of the existing house affect a dual-occupancy application?
Generally, no. The age of the existing house by itself does not determine whether a dual occupancy can be approved. The application is assessed against the current planning requirements applying to the block and proposed development.
The ACT Missing Middle Housing Design Guide specifically illustrates a detached dual occupancy that retains the existing dwelling, showing that retaining an older/existing house is contemplated.
However, the age of the house may become relevant if it has heritage protection or other site-specific constraints. Heritage requirements can affect alterations, additions, new buildings, demolition, landscaping, site coverage and setbacks.
Reference: ACT Missing Middle Housing Design Guide – ACT Missing Middle Housing Design Guide
Short Answer
Generally, no. The age of the existing house itself does not determine whether a dual occupancy can be approved. The proposal must meet the current planning requirements, although heritage or other site-specific constraints may affect an older property.
Detailed Explanation
There is no general Territory Plan requirement that determines dual-occupancy eligibility based solely on the age of an existing dwelling. A proposal involving retention of an existing dwelling must instead demonstrate compliance with the current Territory Plan provisions applicable to dual occupancy, including relevant requirements concerning private open space, planting, tree canopy and parking.Additional controls may apply where the existing dwelling or site is subject to heritage protection or another planning constraint.
No minimum block size does not remove the need for planning assessment.
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