Key Changes to Clause 54 for Single Dwellings & Small Secondary Dwellings in Victoria (Amendment VC282)
The rules are changing for how single dwellings are assessed in the Victoria Planning Provisions (VPP) and planning schemes. Amendment VC282 introduces key changes to streamline the planning process, extend new planning provisions to single dwelling developments, and enhance sustainability standards across residential projects. State Government are seeking to improve decision-making efficiency, reduce administrative costs, and support better environmental outcomes. We are hoping it means faster and less subjective planning approvals.
Key Changes for single dwellings:
Extension of Residential Planning Provisions: Amendment VC282 replaces the existing Clause 54 with new provisions that now apply to single dwellings or small second dwellings on a lot. This aligns with the recent changes introduced for two dwellings or more on a lot earlier this year.
Simplified Assessment and Decision-Making: The new assessment framework allows for quicker decisions. If a project meets the specified standards, the corresponding objectives are automatically deemed to be met, reducing the need for additional consideration of decision guidelines.
VicSmart Applications: If an application meets the specified standards, it qualifies as a VicSmart application. This means the proposal is exempt from third-party notice and review, speeding up the process.
New Standards for Single and Small Second Dwellings
Several new standards have been introduced that cover important aspects of residential development, including:
Street setbacks
Building height
Setbacks and site coverage
Tree canopy protection
Front fences
Daylight access
Overlooking and overshadowing restrictions
Solar energy systems
These standards aim to ensure that new developments are not only sustainable but also offer good quality of life for both existing and new residents by addressing neighbourhood character and environmental factors. Some of the provisions are similar to what we have now and some changes are more significant.
Consequential Changes and Local Variations
The amendment also introduces updates to residential zones, schedules, and VicSmart requirements. This includes:
Removal or restriction of local variations for street setback, private open space, and site coverage.
Updates to all residential zone schedules and Neighbourhood Character Overlay (NCO) schedules.
Local variations for these aspects are now restricted, and only more permissive local variations will be applied.*
*Noting that it looks like existing modifications to NCOs in Surf Coast Shire are set to remain for Anglesea, Lorne and Aireys Inlet.
Sustainability and Environmental Benefits
One of the standout features of the new rules are the emphasis on sustainability. The amendment introduces updated sustainability objectives and standards, focusing on:
Retaining or planting canopy trees
Protecting north-facing windows from direct summer sunlight
Providing space for rooftop solar systems
Preventing overshadowing of existing solar panels
These measures aim to reduce energy costs for residents and mitigate the effects of climate change through increased greening and renewable energy use.
Transition Provisions and Bushfire Risk Management
Transitional Provisions: Applications lodged before the commencement date will continue to be assessed under the previous provisions. This provides some flexibility for ongoing projects. We recommend holding off submitting any new applications until September 8 to make the most of the new rules.
Bushfire Risk: The amendment maintains existing bushfire planning requirements, ensuring that residential developments in bushfire-prone areas remain safe and compliant with necessary regulations.
New rules aiming for Social, Economic, and Environmental Impact
Social Benefits: With Victoria's population growing rapidly, the amendment addresses housing shortages and aims to reduce housing costs by simplifying the approval process for residential developments.
Economic Benefits: By making the application process more efficient and less complex, the new rules reduce costs for applicants while ensuring a more consistent approach across residential developments.
Environmental Benefits: The sustainability provisions within the new rules support greener living environments, better energy efficiency, and reduced climate impacts. The canopy tree requirements and solar energy provisions are central to these efforts.
Final Thoughts on the new planning changes in VC282
Amendment VC282 is a significant step towards simplifying the residential planning process in Victoria while ensuring sustainability standards are met. It promises faster decisions, greater transparency, and a more sustainable approach to housing development.
How Will This Affect Your Project?
If you're planning a development, it's crucial to understand how the new rules will impact your project. From VicSmart applications to sustainability standards, these changes could streamline your approval process and help you meet environmental objectives.
We will provide a more detailed breakdown of the key changes after they have been implemented into Victorian Planning schemes next month.
If you'd like to know how these changes apply to your specific project, book a call with us to discuss the details. We're here to help guide you through these updates and ensure your application meets the new requirements.
