Insight 1: The Importance of Understanding the Minimum Garden Area Requirement
If you’re planning to subdivide land in Victoria, understanding the minimum garden area requirement is crucial. With Victoria’s population projected to reach ten million by 2051, the demand for housing is set to increase significantly. In response, the Victorian Government has reviewed its residential zones to maintain the green open atmosphere of neighbourhoods.
Insight 2: Defining the Minimum Garden Area Requirement in Victoria
The minimum garden area requirement, effective since March 2017, is a key recommendation from the government’s review. It mandates an increase in garden areas when land is developed within common and neighbourhood residential zones. This requirement is non-negotiable and a planning permit cannot be issued if it’s not met during construction or extension of a dwelling or residential building.
Insight 3: Who Does the Requirement Apply To?
The requirement applies to any Victorian property zoned Neighbourhood Residential Zone or General Residential Zone. For lots between 400 to 500 square metres, a 25% minimum garden area is required. Lots between 500 to 650 square metres require a 30% minimum garden area, and lots larger than 650 square metres need a 35% minimum garden area.
Insight 4: What Constitutes a Garden Area?
Garden areas can include lawns, flower beds, open entertainment areas like swimming pools, tennis courts, retaining walls, fences, paved areas, private bushfire shelters, gazebos, and greenhouses.
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Unsure about your next building project? Get expert advice, no strings attached! Take advantage of our FREE consultation at SQM Architects. We’re here to answer your queries and bring clarity to your vision. With our transparent process and reputable track record, your project is in capable hands.
Insight 5: Understanding the Exceptions to the Minimum Garden Area Requirement
On May 15, 2018, the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (Renamed to Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action since January 2023) amended VC143 to clarify the Garden Area provisions and their exemptions. The most significant changes specify that areas with a minimum dimension of one metre cannot include an eave exceeding a total breadth of 600mm, a pergola, unroofed terraces, patios, decks, steps, or landings with a height less than 800mm, a basement that does not project above ground level, or any outhouse exceeding a total floor area of ten square metres. Driveways, carports, carparks, garages, and uncovered parking spaces are also excluded from the garden area.
Insight 6: What Can Be Included in the Garden Area Calculation?
The amendment allows the inclusion of areas under any outhouse less than ten square metres, such as small garden sheds, covered barbeque areas, and pool equipment rooms. Areas under domestic services like air-conditioning units, hot water services, heating and cooling equipment, fuel and water tanks, waste receptacle enclosures, sunblinds, shade sails, and mailboxes can also be included. Areas under an eave with a breadth less than 600mm, under a pergola or unroofed patios, terraces, decks, steps, and landing with a height less than 800mm, and over a basement if it does not protrude more than 1.2 metres above natural ground level, are also permissible.
Insight 7: The Impact of the Minimum Garden Area Requirement on Property Development
While these new requirements aim to promote a greener Victoria, understanding and implementing them can be challenging. As professional architects, we at SQM Architects are well-versed in these policies and can guide you through the process of planning permit or development approval.
How SQM Architects Can Help
Please note that this article should be used as a reference only. For specific advice on the topics discussed, contact our professional team at SQM Architects. We can advise you on your proposed garden area, implications of these changes, and offer solutions to build a house that suits your needs while complying with property development rules. Contact us today for a free consultation.
How to gain professional insights for FREE, no strings attached
Unsure about your next building project? Get expert advice, no strings attached! Take advantage of our FREE consultation at SQM Architects. We’re here to answer your queries and bring clarity to your vision. With our transparent process and reputable track record, your project is in capable hands.
About the Author
Sammi Lian, the founder of SQM Architects, has dedicated over 15 years of her career to the architectural industry. She works diligently with property developers, builders, investors, and homeowners, using her skills and knowledge to facilitate their building design needs.
