6 July 2010: Department of Planning enewsflash

Have your say on proposed expansion of NSW Housing Code

Community feedback is being sought on NSW Government plans to slash approval times for new homes and home extensions on small lots by up to 190 days, while retaining neighbourhood privacy and amenity.

Proposed amendments to the code include:

• Extending the existing code to lots at least 300 square metres in size (down from the current minimum size of 450 square metres) and a road frontage of at least 10 metres (down from 12 metres);
• Developing a new part of the code which specifically applies to small lots at least 200 square metres and a frontage of between 6-10 metres;
• Allowing minor external alterations such as enlarging windows and doors; and
• Requiring at least 30% of small lots to remain undeveloped and limits on maximum floor area and height.

A discussion paper outlining the proposed improvements to the code is on public exhibition until 6 August 2010.  Click here for more information.