What Is Low and Mid-Rise Housing in NSW?

Low- and mid-rise housing sits between a freestanding house and a high-rise apartment building. NSW planning policy uses these forms of housing to support more choice in well-located areas.

What housing types are included?

NSW Planning describes low-rise housing as generally one to two storeys. It includes dual occupancies, terraces, townhouses and low-rise apartment buildings.

Mid-rise housing is generally three to six storeys and includes apartment buildings and mixed-use buildings with shops at ground level.

See the NSW Planning definition and current policy.

Where does the policy apply?

The policy changes planning controls in defined areas near nominated town centres and transport hubs across parts of metropolitan and regional NSW.

Location alone does not establish what can be developed on a particular property. The zoning, development type, site conditions, planning controls and applicable exclusions still matter.

How does the Housing Pattern Book relate?

The NSW Housing Pattern Book offers endorsed low- and mid-rise designs. Some proposals using a low-rise pattern may be eligible for a complying development pathway. Mid-rise patterns use a streamlined development application pathway.

Each pathway has requirements. A pattern design is not a universal approval, and a project must still meet the relevant site, permissibility, documentation and pattern requirements.

Read the official Pattern Book approval guidance.

Where modular development advice fits

Policy can establish an opportunity, but the development pathway also connects planning, design, manufacturing, construction, finance and market delivery.

Iconic Centre provides consultation and helps clients identify and coordinate suitable specialists across that pathway. It does not replace the project-specific planning, design, lending or certification assessments required for a proposal.

This article is general information, not planning or approval advice. Check current NSW policy and obtain professional advice for a specific site.