Can I Strata Subdivide a Dual Occupancy in NSW?

Strata subdivision is a common question for anyone building or buying into a dual occupancy in New South Wales.

Whether you’re planning to sell each dwelling separately or simply want independent titles, the rules can be complex.

As a town planner that professionals and homeowners rely on, we regularly guide clients through this exact process.

Understanding What Counts as a Dual Occupancy

Under NSW planning rules, a dual occupancy involves two dwellings on one lot of land. These can be side-by-side (attached) or one behind the other (detached).

While building two homes on one title might seem simple, subdividing them under strata title introduces another layer of regulations.

You’ll need to comply not only with building regulations NSW, but also with local council policies and state planning codes.

Early planning advice for dual occupancy NSW developments is critical. A client in Blacktown recently asked if their completed dual occupancy could be subdivided into two separate strata lots.

Because they didn’t plan for this during their original development application, the answer was no-at least not without a full Clause 4.6 variation request.

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What Does Strata Subdivision Require?

To strata subdivide, you’ll need to demonstrate that each dwelling complies with minimum lot size and frontage requirements under the DCP or LEP.

This is where working with a town planner near me specialising in NSW DCP becomes essential.

Your application must include a full statement of environmental effects for NSW DA, updated site plans, and utility separation diagrams.

In many LGAs, this also involves a fresh DA approval and referral to the water authority for service separation.

A planning consultant can help prepare a compliant council submission for secondary dwelling NSW or dual occupancy, with clear documentation to avoid delays.

Town Planning Services for Residential Development NSW

We’ve handled many strata subdivision projects for dual occupancies across metro and regional councils.

In Wollongong, we recently assisted a client who initially sought a single-title development. After construction, they decided to strata subdivide for investment purposes.

Because we had included the required provisions in the original planning permit NSW, and met the dual occupancy separation rules, the council approval went through smoothly.

This shows how critical it is to plan subdivision from the outset. If you're also in a heritage zone, a heritage impact statement NSW town planning teams prepare may be needed to support your submission.

NSW Town Planning Consultant for Subdivision Approval

Subdivision approval in NSW involves more than ticking a box. A qualified NSW town planning consultant for subdivision approval will review your site conditions, zoning, and utility access to confirm eligibility.

If your land is irregular, has limited frontage, or is near sensitive zones, you may need expert help with Clause 4.6 variation request NSW.

Knowing how to get a DA approved in NSW with subdivision in mind ensures your project can progress without roadblocks.

Engaging the right town planning support from the beginning helps align your dual occupancy with both development application requirements and long-term investment goals.