Housing density
Housing density refers to the number of homes or dwellings that can be developed on a block of land. In Western Australia, the Residential Design Codes (R-Codes) set by the Western Australian Planning Commission (WAPC) guide how many dwellings may be permitted based on zoning and lot size. Below is a general guide to development potential for common residential coding:
R20
- 450–899m²: 1 dwelling
- 900–1,349m²: 2 dwellings
- 1,350m² and over: 3 or more dwellings
R40
- 220-439m²: 1 dwelling
- 440-659m²: 2 dwellings
- 660-879m²: 3 dwellings
- 880-1,099m²: 4 dwellings
- 1,100m² and over: 5 or more dwellings
R60
- 150-299m²: 1 dwelling
- 300-449m²: 2 dwellings
- 450-599m²: 3 dwellings
- 600-749m²: 4 dwellings
- 750m² and over: 5 or more dwellings
Important: The development potential of a property can vary depending on factors such as site layout, design, access, subdivision requirements and approval from the WAPC.
Residential recoding
Residential recoding refers to changing the density (R-Code) of land to allow for different types or numbers of dwellings. In the City of Wanneroo, residential recoding is guided by Local Planning Policy 3.1: Local Housing Strategy (LPP 3.1). This policy ensures that increased housing density occurs in suitable locations, close to services and infrastructure, while maintaining neighbourhood character and supporting sustainable development.
How it works
Residential recoding refers to changing the density (R-Code) of land to allow for different types or numbers of dwellings. In the City of Wanneroo, residential recoding is guided by Local Planning Policy 3.1: Local Housing Strategy (LPP 3.1). This policy ensures that increased housing density occurs in suitable locations, close to services and infrastructure, while maintaining neighbourhood character and supporting sustainable development.
Part 1 – Identified housing precincts
Provides a framework for rezoning within designated housing precincts in:
- Wanneroo
- Girrawheen-Koondoola
While parts of Yanchep and Two Rocks are included, recoding is not currently supported in these areas due to limited deep sewerage infrastructure. The City is continuing to liaise with the State regarding the provision of this infrastructure in these suburbs
Part 2 – Other areas
Outlines how additional infill development may be considered in established suburbs outside identified housing precincts. However, the City generally:
- Does not support recoding of individual lots, and
- Focuses on increasing density within planned housing precincts.
More information and support
For more information about housing density or residential recoding, please contact the City on (08) 9405 5000.
Frequently asked questions
Can the City propose to recode my property?
In the future, the City will investigate additional areas for potential future recoding from low density housing to medium density housing to provide a range of housing types for our residents. The recoding may provide residential development opportunities in the future. The City may then propose an amendment to District Planning Scheme No. 2 (DPS 2) to recode an area.
Is it certain that the R-Code of my property will be changed?
No. Any proposed change will depend on approvals being given by Council, WAPC and ultimately the Minister for Planning.
Do I have to develop or subdivide my lot once it is recoded?
No. Any recoding of land does not mean that you must subdivide or develop. It simply provides the opportunity and flexibility for you to do so.
Will my Council rates be affected by an increase in R-Coding?
An increase in R-Coding (density) does not automatically change your Council rates. Rates are based on your property’s value, not just its zoning. If the value of your property increases over time, potentially influenced by its development potential, your rates may also change.
If the Minister for Planning approves a change to the residential density of a property, it will be published in the Government Gazette. Once published, those people that want to develop will be able to submit subdivision, development and/or building applications at the higher R Code.