RZ1 Rules - The POD

The RZ1 zone, known as the Suburban Zone, is designated for low-rise, low-density residential development in Canberra. It primarily accommodates single-dwelling housing, with specific rules and regulations governing building types, setbacks, and other requirements to maintain the area’s character.

Permissible Developments:

Single Dwellings: The predominant development in RZ1 is single-dwelling houses.
Dual Occupancies: Recent changes allow dual occupancies on blocks larger than 800 square metres. Each additional dwelling can be up to 120 square metres and may now be unit-titled, enabling separate ownership and sale.

Setback Requirements:

Front Setback: A minimum of 6 metres for the dwelling’s lower and upper floors, and 5.5 metres for garages or carports.
Rear Setback: At least 3 metres for single-storey dwellings and 4-6 metres for two-storey dwellings.
Side Setbacks: These vary based on building height and block specifics; consulting the ACT Planning and Land Authority (ACTPLA) guidelines is recommended for precise measurements.

*Please note that if any of your boundaries have parklands next to them, you’ll likely require a 4 metre setback from that boundary.

Council Notes:

Tree Planting: There may be requirements for tree planting to maintain the suburb’s green character.
Government Fees: Development applications will likely incur fees; it’s advisable to consult the ACTPLA for current rates.
Process Timeline: Typically, construction must be completed before unit titling and subsequent sale of the dwellings.

Design Considerations:

Building Envelope: Structures must fit within a defined building envelope to ensure adequate light, ventilation, and privacy between properties.
Plot Ratio and Site Coverage: These dictate the proportion of the block that can be built upon, ensuring sufficient open space is maintained. This can differ depending on the site location, as a general rule, you can build on 50% of your block.
Private Open Space: Each dwelling should have a designated private open space to enhance residential amenity.
Solar Access: Designs should consider solar access to optimize energy efficiency and comfort.
Overshaddowing: Designs cannot overshadow neighbouring blocks too much. The architects will calculate this and show overshadowing diagrams to ensure neighbouring blocks are not cut out from receiving appropriate sunlight.

Height Restrictions:

Buildings in RZ1 are limited to two storeys. Attics or basements are not permitted directly above or below any two-storey element of the dwelling.

Parking Requirements:

Each dwelling must provide two parking spaces, with at least one being undercover. For dual occupancies, this totals four parking spaces, two per dwelling, each with separate access.

Council Notes:

Tree Planting: There may be requirements for tree planting to maintain the suburb’s green character.
Government Fees: Development applications will likely incur fees; it’s advisable to consult the ACTPLA for current rates.
Process Timeline: Typically, construction must be completed before unit titling and subsequent sale of the dwellings.

For detailed and up-to-date information, it’s recommended to consult the ACT Planning and Land Authority (ACTPLA/EPSDD) or refer to the latest version of the Residential Zones Policy or contact The Pod Canberra on 1300 843 763.