Minister for Planning Sonya Kilkenny has announced the ‘Single Home Code’, a state-wide amendment to Victoria’s planning schemes that will streamline approvals for single homes and small second dwellings on lots under 300 square metres.
Under the current system, homeowners often face delays and uncertainty due to inconsistent council processes, complex paperwork and lengthy appeals – making it harder to build more homes.
If a home meets the updated standards – including requirements for setbacks, tree canopy, solar access and street amenity – it will be ‘deemed to comply’ meaning it can be approved without further assessment. Neighbours will still be notified and can provide feedback, but if the standards are met, there’ll be no VCAT appeals or costly delays.
The changes improve the existing 10-day VicSmart fast-track process by simplifying what applicants need to submit and clarifying how councils assess it.
It will apply across all residential zones in Victoria and will ensure clearer, more consistent assessments for single and small second dwellings, adhering to good design while streamlining approvals.
This update builds on the Townhouse and Low-Rise Code introduced earlier this year.
The new standards also include stronger sustainability protections – such as limiting overshadowing of rooftop solar – supporting greener, more energy-efficient homes.
Reform is also underway on a new set of standards for mid-rise residential developments between four and six storeys, with targeted consultation on the standards with industry peak bodies and all 79 councils to begin soon.
“The Victorian government’s Single Home Code is another small, but important step, towards improving the Victorian planning system,” stated HIA executive director, Keith Ryan.
“Importantly, the Single Home Code removes the need for owners of smaller lots to face unnecessary delays caused by third party reviews to VCAT.
“The Single Home Code follows the Townhouse and Low-Rise Code introduced earlier this year. The government also reminded us yesterday that a Medium-Rise Code is also coming soon. Together these reforms help to gently increase housing density without excessive impacts on communities and local amenity.”
