R Zones (or R-Codes) are used for the assessment of residential subdivision proposals in Perth. With a rapidly growing city like ours, these zones help to control growth and provide a framework for development of blocks and land.

The codes outline how many residences can go on a one-hectare (10,000 sqm) block. Each code also explains the smallest and average size of a residential block within the area. They do go deeper than outlining the number of homes and density on a block.

Other areas they cover include:

  • Type of dwelling
  • Max. plot ratio, (for apartments)
  • Min. open space rule
  • Max. dwelling height allowed
  • Required boundary setbacks
  • Streetscapes
  • Parking and access required
  • Site works

R-Zones or R-Codes are the Residential Design Codes are the building requirements for residential areas. These specify how much space a home can take up on a block, and how much space must be left on each block.

Definitions

  • Minimum Site Area Per Dwelling: This is the minimum site area permitted per house.
  • Minimum Average Site Area Per Dwelling: The average area of all dwellings must be above this. If you have a dwelling that’s at the minimum, the other dwelling must be above this in order to bring the average up.
  • Minimum Setback: The amount of space between the primary street, and the beginning of the dwelling. Consider this the front yard space.

Three of the most common R Zones are:

R20 Zoning

R20 zoning normally indicates 20 dwellings per hectare.
Most suburbs in Perth as well as regional areas are zoned R20.

Single house or group dwellings

  • Minimum site area per dwelling – 350sqm
  • Minimum Average site area per dwelling – 450sqm.
  • Minimum Setback –  6m from the street.
  • The home must cover at least 50% of the block, with at least 30sqm of outdoor space.

For example.
1000sqm block has the following subdivision potential:
2 dwellings.

R30 Zoning

R30 zoning normally indicates 30 dwellings per hectare.
R30 zoning is generally found as you move closer to Perth’s CBD. Where blocks and homes may become smaller.

Single house or group dwellings

  • Minimum site area per dwelling – 260sqm
  • Minimum Average site area per dwelling – 300sqm
  • Minium Setback – 4m from the street.
  • The home must cover at least 45% of the block, with at least 24sqm of outdoor space.

For example.
1000sqm block has the following subdivision potential:
3 dwellings.

R40 Zoning

R40 zoning normally indicated 40 dwellings per hectare.
R40 zoning is generally found as you move closer to Perth’s CBD, as smaller blocks and units become more prominent.

Single house dwellings

  • Mininum site area per dwelling – 180sqm
  • Minimum Average site area per dwelling – 220sqm
  • Minimum Setback – 4m from the street
  • The home must cover at least 45% of the block, with at least 20sqm of outdoor space.

For example.
1000sqm block has the following subdivision potential:
4 dwellings.

 

The Minimum Block Size For Subdivision

In Perth, the block size required for a subdivision will depend on the R-Code that applies to your block of land. You need at least 2x the ‘minimum average’.

    • If your land is in an R20 area you’ll need a minimum of 900m2 in order to subdivide and allow two homes.
    • If your land is in an R30 area, you’ll need at least 600m2 in order to subdivide your block for two homes.
    • If your land is in an R40 area, you’ll need at least 440m2 in order to subdivide your block for two homes.

 

Chat with us today to find out more, or your local council can provide you with the information you need regarding zoning for your block of land.