Understanding R20 Zoning in Western Australia’s Residential Design Codes (R-Codes)
When it comes to residential development in Western Australia, understanding the intricacies of zoning codes is critical for achieving compliant and successful projects. One of the most common density codings in suburban areas is R20, which is governed by the Residential Design Codes (R-Codes) Volume 1. This zoning strikes a balance between preserving neighbourhood character and allowing for sustainable development. Here’s an in-depth look at the rules and guidelines that shape development in R20 zones.
What is R20 Zoning?
R20 zoning represents low-density residential areas, typically associated with spacious lots and single-family homes. The zoning provisions under the R-Codes ensure developments respect the character and amenity of the surrounding area while meeting modern needs for housing, privacy, and liveability. R20 zoning is guided by specific requirements for lot size, building design, outdoor spaces, and setbacks.
Key Development Standards for R20 Zoning
To align with the requirements of R20 zoning, developers and designers must adhere to a range of standards, ensuring compliance and good design outcomes.
R20 Site Area Requirements
- Minimum Site Area per Dwelling: Each dwelling in an R20 zone must have at least 450 square metres of lot area. This requirement is particularly relevant for grouped dwellings or new subdivisions.
- Average Site Area: For grouped dwellings, an average of 500 square metres per dwelling must be achieved, ensuring a spacious and low-density feel across developments.
These controls maintain the open, suburban character that is integral to R20-zoned neighbourhoods.
R20 Setback Requirements
Setbacks are an essential element of the R-Codes, providing spatial separation between buildings and ensuring access to natural light, ventilation, and privacy.
- Street Setbacks: A primary street setback of 6.0 metres is standard in R20 zones. However, variations may apply based on the specific planning framework for a neighbourhood.
- Lot Boundary Setbacks: Side and rear setbacks depend on the height and length of walls. For instance:
- Walls with no major openings: 1.0 to 1.5 metres.
- Walls with major openings: Larger setbacks to mitigate overlooking and privacy concerns.
These provisions help create a sense of openness and avoid overdevelopment of lots.
R20 Open Space
- Minimum Requirement: At least 50% of the lot area must remain as open space. This ensures there is sufficient room for gardens, landscaping, and outdoor recreation, contributing to the liveability and aesthetic appeal of the development.
R20 Building Height
Height restrictions in R20 zones aim to preserve a consistent suburban streetscape:
- Maximum Wall Height: 6.0 metres
- Maximum Roof Pitch Height: 9.0 metres
These limitations ensure that buildings do not dominate the neighbourhood skyline while maintaining compatibility with surrounding homes.
R20 Outdoor Living Areas
Outdoor living spaces are a cornerstone of R20 development:
- Minimum Size: Each dwelling must have at least 30 square metres of outdoor living area, with a minimum dimension of 4.0 metres.
- Access: The outdoor living area must be accessible directly from a habitable room of the dwelling, ensuring usability and convenience.
R20 Parking Requirements
Sufficient parking provisions are essential to accommodate residents and visitors:
- Single Houses: Two on-site parking spaces are required, with at least one being covered.
- Grouped Dwellings: Visitor parking spaces may also be required depending on the scale of development.
R20 Ancillary Dwellings
R20 zoning allows for ancillary dwellings (commonly known as granny flats) on lots greater than 450 square metres, provided they meet setback, access, and scale requirements. This offers flexibility for multi-generational living or rental income.
Pathways to Compliance: Deemed-to-Comply vs. Design Principles
The R-Codes offer two pathways for achieving compliance in R20 zones:
- Deemed-to-Comply Standards: These provide prescriptive rules, such as specific setbacks or open space percentages. If a development meets these standards, approval is straightforward.
- Design Principles: This pathway allows for greater flexibility by demonstrating that the proposed development meets the broader objectives of the R-Codes. For instance, a slightly reduced setback may be acceptable if the design improves streetscape integration or enhances amenity for neighbours.
The design principle pathway encourages innovative, site-responsive designs but requires justification and careful consideration.
R20 Local Planning Adjustments and Considerations
While the R-Codes provide a robust framework, local planning frameworks often introduce additional nuances to reflect the specific needs of a community. For example, local policies may adjust setbacks, open space requirements, or streetscape elements to achieve better alignment with the area’s character.
Understanding the interplay between the R-Codes and local planning policies is vital for developers to ensure compliance and achieve approval.
Why Adhere to R20 Zoning Standards?
Compliance with R20 zoning standards ensures that developments:
- Contribute positively to the suburban character.
- Provide functional and liveable spaces for residents.
- Minimise disputes with neighbours through appropriate setbacks and privacy measures.
- Align with sustainability goals, including adequate landscaping and tree retention.
Adhering to these standards not only simplifies the approval process but also enhances the quality and value of the development.
Final Thoughts
R20 zoning encapsulates the essence of suburban living in Western Australia, balancing the need for housing diversity with the preservation of neighbourhood character. Developers, architects, and builders must navigate these requirements thoughtfully, leveraging the flexibility of the design principles pathway when needed while respecting the overarching goals of the R-Codes.
Whether you’re planning a single house, grouped dwelling, or ancillary accommodation, understanding and applying R20 zoning rules is a critical step towards creating successful, compliant, and community-oriented developments.
For more guidance on navigating the R-Codes and local planning frameworks, feel free to reach out to our team of experts!
