News ·

NSW Pattern Book: webinar

Aerial coastline with a YouTube play button for the NSW Pattern Book webinar

Watch PropCode’s webinar on the NSW Pattern Book — how the patterns work, the new CDC pathway, and where they apply.

Download the slides

Frequently asked questions about Pattern Book

Are the Pattern Book rules different in a Low and Mid Rise area?

Yes. If the property is located within a Low and Mid Rise area, within 800m of a listed station or centre, the Pattern Book rules work differently:

  1. If LMR fully applies and the property is in R2 zone, the LMR permissibility overrides an LEP prohibition.
  2. In an LMR area, the LEP minimum lot area rule for a pattern type is ignored.
  3. In an LMR area, each pattern can be used on smaller lots than on a non-LMR property.
What if a dual occupancy is prohibited in the LEP's R2 zone but allowed by LMR?

In this case, such as Hornsby, Ku-ring-gai and Northern Beaches, a dual occupancy cannot be approved by CDC, even though it is permissible by DA. To use a pattern, you would need to get DA approval.

What kinds of lots are excluded from pattern approval by CDC?

The new CDC pathway fully excludes bushfire prone land, any heritage, and battle-axe lots. It also restricts building on registered easements or lots with an existing secondary dwelling.

How much floor space can I build with a pattern? Is it better than normal?

The patterns each have their own maximum achievable floor area while remaining consistent with the pattern design and options. These achievable FSRs are generally a little less than the LMR FSRs and generally greater than a typical R2 zone FSR.

Can I build more than 3 terraces or more than 4 row homes?

The Terraces patterns start with 3 terraces by definition but can be increased if the site width allows, subject to pattern design details like dwelling width. The Row Homes patterns have a maximum frontage of 45m for CDC eligibility.

Can I use a pattern with DA approval if CDC is not an option?

A pattern could be approved by DA if it fully meets the LEP or LMR rules, especially any minimum lot area for that type. Additionally, like any DA project, the design must comply with all DCP rules, which may require custom adjustments. The 10-day approval timeframe is only for CDCs, not DAs.

Can I subdivide a pattern project?

The Pattern Book CDC rules do not affect subdivision permissibility. Subdivision must be allowed by the LEP, or the Low and Mid Rise rules if they apply, with compliant minimum child lot sizes. If allowed, subdivision can be approved by CDC either simultaneously with the building CDC or later.

← All news