Can parking be provided in the front setback?
Generally, no. For a dual occupancy treated as multi-unit housing, the Residential Zones Technical Specifications state that car parking spaces are not to be located in the front zone, subject to limited exceptions.
The exceptions include compact blocks and a part of a driveway used as a tandem parking space where the other parking space is located behind the front building line.
So, while a driveway can pass through the front setback/front zone to provide access, it does not automatically mean that the driveway can be counted as a required parking space.
Reference: Planning (Residential Zones) Technical Specifications 2026 (NI2026-303) — AO27 and Specification 27.3 – https://www.legislation.act.gov.au/View/ni/2026-303/current/PDF/2026-303.PDF
Short Answer
Generally, no. Required car parking should not be located in the front zone, except in limited circumstances such as compact blocks or qualifying tandem parking on a driveway.
Detailed Explanation
Generally, no. Under Specification 27.3 of the Residential Zones Technical Specifications 2026, car parking spaces are not to be located in the front zone, except on a compact block or where the relevant part of a driveway provides tandem parking with another car space located behind the front building line.
For multi-unit housing, parking must also comply with the additional location requirements under Specification 27.3, including applicable separation from habitable-room windows or doors and proximity to the dwelling served.
No minimum block size does not remove the need for planning assessment.
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