Which version of the rules applies to my project right now?
The Planning (Residential Zones) Technical Specifications 2026 (NI2026-303) commenced on 1 July 2026 and, by clause 4 of the instrument, revoked the Planning (Residential Zones) Technical Specifications 2025 (No 2) (NI2025-493). Any development application lodged from 1 July 2026 is assessed against the 2026 specifications.
Reference: Changes to the Technical Specification
Short Answer
The Planning (Residential Zones) Technical Specifications 2026 (NI2026-303) commenced on 1 July 2026 and replaced the 2025 specifications. Development applications lodged from 1 July 2026 are assessed against the 2026 specifications.
Detailed Explanation
The Planning (Residential Zones) Technical Specifications 2026 (NI2026-303) commenced on 1 July 2026, replacing the Planning (Residential Zones) Technical Specifications 2025 (No. 2). The accompanying Change Summary explains that the 2026 specifications were updated to support the ACT Government's Missing Middle housing reforms by introducing revised residential development standards and clarifying a number of technical requirements. These changes are intended to provide greater housing choice while maintaining neighbourhood character, improving sustainability, supporting tree canopy outcomes, and ensuring high-quality residential design. Development applications lodged from 1 July 2026 are assessed against the 2026 Technical Specifications.
No minimum block size does not remove the need for planning assessment.
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