The NSW Government has expanded the categories of low impact development which qualify for a 10-day approval under the NSW Housing Code.
The changes will allow certain low impact developments to avoid full development application procedures and be approved by accredited certifiers. Providing the meet strict design criteria, the changes apply to-
• new dwelling houses
• attic conversions
• extensions
• basements
• garages
• carports
• rear lane developments
The previous minimum lot size for this streamlined approval system was 450 square metres, however, changes to the Housing code now allow lots of 200 square metres and above to apply.
A separate code for rural areas is also being introduced including development criteria that have been specifically tailored to account for the unique qualities of these areas.
The changes to the State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) relating to exempt and complying development codes have been formally approved and will commence on 25 February 2011.
For more information http://housingcode.planning.nsw.gov.au/