Minimum Land Required for a Dual Occupancy Subdivision in Victoria

Swarup Dutta
3 days ago
2 min read

Minimum land required for a Dual Occupancy Subdivision example

There is no single minimum land size for a dual occupancy subdivision in Victoria, unless specified in the Council's Planning Scheme.

Instead, councils assess each site based on zoning, overlays, frontage, access, private open space, and overall design feasibility.

In many cases, a typical mid- to outer-ring suburban block of around 500 to 600 square metres or more offers the best chance of approval, although some smaller sites may still be suitable depending on the local planning controls.

In fact, the smallest lot I have been involved with for a successful permit resulted in a 70 square metre lot with a three-bedroom unit in an inner Melbourne suburb.

The required land area will also depend on whether the proposal is a duplex, a corner lot development, or the more common tandem dual occupancy arrangement, where the existing house is retained and a new unit is proposed in the backyard.

Practical feasibility checklist

Before relying on land size alone, consider the following:

Can each dwelling achieve proper vehicle access and parking?
Is there enough private open space for both homes?
Do the zoning and overlays support the proposal?
Does the lot shape allow a practical subdivision outcome, rather than just two buildings?
Is there a single-dwelling restriction on title?
Will the amenity of neighbouring lots be affected by overlooking or overshadowing?
Are there large trees in the backyard that must be retained?
Can a 3 metre wide driveway be provided to the backyard for the new dwelling?
Is there enough room in the backyard to accommodate the new unit, plus private open space and parking for each dwelling on a typical suburban lot?
Will the lot still meet the minimum garden area and canopy tree requirements?
Where is the easement and what is the width? Is the sewer within or outside the easement?