Understanding R30 Zoning in Western Australia’s Residential Design Codes (R-Codes) 

R30 zoning is a key density coding under Western Australia’s Residential Design Codes (R-Codes), offering greater flexibility and diversity in housing options while maintaining a well-structured and liveable environment. As a medium-density zoning, R30 is ideal for areas transitioning from lower-density suburban areas to more compact urban environments. 

This blog post breaks down the specific standards and rules governing R30 zoning under the R-Codes Volume 1, helping developers and homeowners understand how to navigate this zoning effectively. 

What is R30 Zoning? 

R30 zoning supports medium-density residential development with an emphasis on increased housing supply and diversity. This zoning often accommodates single houses, grouped dwellings, and multiple dwellings in configurations suitable for compact yet functional neighbourhoods. R30 zoning is commonly applied in areas close to transport hubs, schools, and local amenities, making it an attractive option for modern suburban development. 

Key Development Standards for R30 Zoning 

R30 developments must meet specific standards to align with R-Codes provisions and contribute positively to the surrounding area.

Site Area Requirements for R30

• Minimum Site Area per Dwelling: Each dwelling requires a minimum site area of 260 square metres. 

• Average Site Area: An average of 300 square metres must be achieved for grouped dwellings or subdivisions. 

These standards enable moderate density increases while ensuring adequate space for liveability and landscaping.

Setback Requirements for R30

Setbacks are essential for maintaining privacy, light, and ventilation while respecting the neighbourhood streetscape: 

• Street Setbacks: A minimum of 4.0 metres is required for primary street setbacks, although local planning policies may provide further guidance. 

• Lot Boundary Setbacks: 

• Walls with no major openings: Setbacks of 1.0 to 1.5 metres, depending on wall height and length. 

• Walls with major openings: Greater setbacks are required to enhance privacy and light access. 

These setback rules create harmonious relationships between adjacent properties and the streetscape.

Open Space Requirements for R30

• Minimum Requirement: Developments must retain at least 45% of the lot area as open space. This provision supports landscaping, outdoor recreation, and overall neighbourhood liveability. 

Building Height for R30

Building height limitations in R30 zones ensure compatibility with the surrounding area: 

• Maximum Wall Height: 6.0 metres 

• Maximum Roof Pitch Height: 9.0 metres 

These height restrictions help maintain a consistent scale and appearance within the community. 

Outdoor Living Areas for R30

Outdoor living spaces are a vital aspect of R30 zoning: 

• Minimum Size: Each dwelling must have at least 24 square metres of outdoor living area. 

• Access: The outdoor living area must be directly accessible from a habitable room, encouraging usability and connection to outdoor spaces. 

Parking Requirements for R30

Adequate parking ensures functionality and reduces congestion: 

• Single Houses: Two on-site parking spaces, with at least one being covered. 

• Grouped or Multiple Dwellings: May require additional visitor parking based on the scale of development and local planning policies. 

Ancillary Dwellings for R30

Ancillary dwellings (granny flats) are permitted on lots exceeding 350 square metres, provided they meet all R-Codes standards for setbacks, access, and site design. These dwellings are an excellent option for multi-generational families or rental opportunities. 

 

Housing Typologies in R30 Zones 

R30 zoning accommodates diverse housing types to meet varying needs: 

• Single Houses: Ideal for families seeking privacy and outdoor space. 

• Grouped Dwellings: Villas, duplexes, or triplexes are common, offering compact housing solutions while retaining functionality. 

• Multiple Dwellings: R30 zones often allow low-rise apartments, providing a more urban housing option in well-connected areas. 

The flexibility in housing typologies ensures that R30 zoning supports diverse demographics and housing preferences. 

Pathways to Compliance: Deemed-to-Comply vs. Design Principles 

R30 developments can follow two pathways to approval: 

1. Deemed-to-Comply Standards: Prescriptive standards, such as minimum setbacks and open space percentages, simplify the approval process if met. 

1. Design Principles: For developments that deviate from deemed-to-comply provisions, the design principles pathway offers flexibility. Developers must demonstrate that their designs meet the broader objectives of the R-Codes, such as enhancing neighbourhood character or improving sustainability. 

This dual-pathway approach supports innovation while maintaining regulatory oversight. 

Local Planning Frameworks and Modifications 

Local planning frameworks can refine R30 zoning provisions to address specific neighbourhood needs. For example: 

• Adjustments to streetscape or landscaping requirements. 

• Inclusion of tree retention strategies. 

• Modifications to parking standards. 

Understanding how R-Codes and local frameworks interact is vital for a smooth approval process.