New zoning laws are reshaping Sydney’s North Shore

Sydney’s North Shore is in the crosshairs. Many will see opportunity, while others find change more challenging. In theory, the new and proposed changes to residential zoning in the North Shore area have good intentions, and their implications will be felt, potentially reshaping the precinct’s character for generations to come.

There is little argument that the nation faces a housing crisis, and the numbers are overwhelming.

Housing and cost of living will be key battlegrounds in the upcoming federal election, and regardless of your personal view, changes to the housing market are afoot. It is not just Northern Sydney. Many jurisdictions across New South Wales and other states and territories are undergoing significant amendments to residential zoning, which is quickly gathering momentum.

In this article, we break down the key changes directly affecting Sydney’s North Shore area.

The TOD plan, in summary, is to create higher-density residential development close to (within 800 metres) significant public transport hubs, which include rail, bus, or light rail stations.

Again, the plan has merit. The knock-on effect of providing more affordable housing close to the city will reduce the pressure on urban sprawl. Secondly, the hope is to encourage more people to live closer to public transport and reduce traffic congestion.

There is scope to improve lifestyles by creating easier access to jobs, education, and recreation while getting a return on completed projects such as the Sydney Metro. There is also an underlying issue. The current government is receiving a battering in the senate for the lethargic role out of 1,000,000 new dwellings over the next five years, beginning in 2024.

If your property falls under the new zoning, for example, an apartment building or mixed-use, the development potential has escalated quite significantly, and developers will most likely come knocking. We recommend speaking with a professional, such as an experienced Northern Sydney architect, if you want to make a change.

On the flip side, the rezoning initiative will come with anxiety for some, especially those who have enjoyed the area for a long time. There will be a transition—increased construction, traffic, and the issue of higher building heights. Naturally, the area’s character will adjust as more people enter the locale, placing strain on existing amenities.

While this rezoning is proceeding, redevelopment still requires council approvals. The councils within Sydney’s North Shore areas, including North Sydney, Lane Cove, Hunters Hill, Willoughby, and Ku-ring-gai Councils, have rigorous approval processes that must be adhered to for any development application.

The team at Playoust Churcher Architects is ideally positioned to assist homeowners in understanding their options and providing valuable advice that helps them maximise their site’s potential.

If your property was previously zoned for a single dwelling, you may be able to add an additional dwelling such as a granny flat, teenager accommodation or a small unit.

Additionally, depending on the site size, the parcel may be suitable for multi-dwelling housing such as townhouses or small scale apartments. Zoning upgrades in Crows Nest TOD precinct, for example, that are now R4 enable extended height and floor space compared to what was previously allowed.

Some amendments have relaxed the approval requirements for additions and second storey extensions, particularly when designs comply with the NSW housing codes. Dual occupancy applications are now permitted in most R2 zones.

There are new housing type codes within some R2 & R3 zones. Manor houses, for example, are allowed, consisting of 3-4 units in a two-story structure. These will require design and planning input but are viable for owner-builders.

The planning approval process is becoming easier and faster; however, ticking the right boxes is still a priority. If you plan an addition such as a studio or granny flat, a terrace, a manor house, or a dual occupancy extension and your project meets the design standards, approval can take as little as 20 days if it is submitted under the Complying Development pathway.

Heritage, bushfire, and flood areas remain constrained and excluded from fast-track pathways. Building or renovating these areas requires a full DA, often including heritage, bushfire, or flood reports. A full DA is still required for larger projects.

Even though the zoning reform appears to overcome obstacles, ensuring your design complies with the relevant codes and regulations and is balanced against potential neighbour concerns is necessary. Professional advice is recommended as revisions and alterations will add additional costs.

Other important considerations while weighing options include your long-term goals. These may include multi-generational living needs, renovating to enhance your lifestyle or investment, or determining if your current position is better served by development or perhaps subdividing. Confirming your current zoning is a must, and we highly advise against lodging a DA or CDC without consulting a planner or architect in the first instance.

While these new zoning amendments pass the regulatory oversight process, now is a great time to speak with our team if you have considered changing your current property or lifestyle. We have extensive experience with all the councils on the Sydney North Shore. We can provide accurate, cost-effective professional advice to give your project the best opportunity for success

Playoust Churcher Architects is a Sydney-based firm specialising in residential heritage and contemporary renovations, outdoor extensions, and new building developments. An integral part of your journey with us is our comprehensive process approach, tailored to meet the demands of our clients and council regulatory frameworks. Our team is well-positioned to maximise livability and financial return and is committed to delivering value that minimises risk and ensures projects stay on schedule and within budget.

We invite you to view our case studies and to contact our team for a comprehensive consultation on your project.