Clause 55 in 2025: What Architects and Planners Need to Know for Urban Infill Success
Introduction
Clause 55, commonly known as ResCode, has long shaped the design of medium-density housing across Victoria. But in 2025, we’ve seen the most comprehensive overhaul of the code in years. With the introduction of the Townhouse and Low-Rise Code via Amendment VC267, Clause 55 has been restructured to better reflect the pressures and opportunities of contemporary urban development—especially in tight infill sites across cities like Melbourne.
So, what’s changed? And more importantly, how do those changes affect how we design, plan and deliver multi-dwelling housing that’s not only code-compliant, but liveable, sustainable and contextual?
At Dadirri Architects, we’ve already had firsthand experience working within the new framework through our recent project in Parkville—Cade Way Townhouse. This article shares what we’ve learnt so far.
Clause 55 Reimagined: The Townhouse and Low-Rise Code
The New Framework
From 31 March 2025, Clause 55 has operated under the new Townhouse and Low-Rise Code. The most significant change is the “deemed-to-comply” assessment pathway. If your development meets all the updated standards, you’re no longer subject to discretionary judgement on objectives—and third-party appeal rights are off the table.
This shift adds clarity and speed to the process. In short, full compliance means a faster, more certain planning approval.
Restructured for Clarity
The standards are now grouped into four themes:
Neighbourhood Character (B2-x)
Liveability (B3-x)
External Amenity (B4-x)
Sustainability (B5-x)
Obsolete standards were removed or consolidated. For example, separate clauses on safety, access, and design detail are now bundled into a simplified “Street Integration” checklist. These refinements make the code easier to navigate and more in tune with modern design sensibilities.
What’s Changed: Key Numbers and Metrics
Setbacks and Site Layout
The minimum front setback is now 6 metres (reduced from 9), aligned with the closest adjoining dwelling. This change is especially welcome on compact urban lots.
Side and rear setbacks can now follow fixed minimum distances instead of the old height-based formula—3 metres on the north, 6 metres on the south—making compliance easier and shadow outcomes more predictable.
Coverage and Green Space
The maximum site coverage now depends on zoning: 60% in Neighbourhood Residential Zones, up to 70% in Residential Growth Zones. This provides more design flexibility—but it’s balanced by a new requirement: tree canopy cover.
Developments must now allocate at least 10% of site area (for lots up to 1000m²) to canopy trees. On tighter sites, this might involve planters or fast-growing native species rather than traditional rear gardens.
Raising the Bar on Amenity
Smaller Yards, Higher Quality
Minimum private open space has dropped from 40m² to 25m² per dwelling. But the emphasis has shifted towards quality. These spaces must be functional, accessible from living areas, and receive good solar access.
Better Interiors by Design
Clause 55 now incorporates apartment-like standards for all dwellings. Rooms must meet minimum dimensions—primary bedrooms need 3 x 3.4 metres—and deep, dark tunnel-like living spaces are out. Cross-ventilation is required for 40% of dwellings.
It means more thoughtful planning, and yes, slightly larger units. But the payoff is better homes—brighter, more breathable, and built for comfort.
Sustainability Front and Centre
Mandatory Solar Readiness
All new developments must be “solar-ready”. Roofs must accommodate PV systems, and overshadowing existing panels on adjacent homes is not permitted. This makes solar orientation and roof form a key design consideration from day one.
Shading and Stormwater
North-facing windows must now include effective summer shading—eaves, pergolas or similar. And the minimum 20% permeability rule now comes with added rigour: stormwater must be managed to EPA standards, meaning swales, raingardens and permeable paving are no longer optional extras.
Waste Planning
All dwellings must include waste and recycling cupboards, and external bin areas must be properly planned. No more squeezing bins onto footpaths—waste storage now forms part of the overall design conversation.
Neighbourhood Sensitivity
Tighter Overshadowing Rules
New builds can now only overshadow up to 50% of an adjoining property’s private open space at the equinox. It’s a big shift—especially on dense inner-city blocks—but one that prioritises access to sunlight and equitable outdoor amenity.
Privacy with Practicality
Bedroom windows are now exempt from privacy screening requirements. This simplifies façade design and window placement, allowing for better natural light without endless obscure glazing. Living rooms and private open spaces still require protection.
Faster Permits—If You Get It Right
The real carrot here is speed. If you can tick every Clause 55 standard, your project can sail through council with no objections and no appeals. But the bar is high. You need to design meticulously and coordinate early—especially around tree planting, stormwater, daylight, and internal layouts.
Lessons from the Field: Cade Way Townhouse
At Dadirri Architects, we put the new Code to the test at our Cade Way project in Parkville. The site was compact and complex, and every millimetre counted.
We used hempcrete walls with curved corners, not just for their sustainability but also to soften transitions between spaces and meet setbacks more flexibly. Passive design strategies—skylights, solar panels, dual-aspect rooms—were core from the start, ensuring we met natural ventilation and daylight standards.
To manage overshadowing and privacy, we carefully modulated building mass and used screens and planter boxes to soften views and protect neighbours. The façade was activated with awnings, balconies, and varied materials—meeting the street integration benchmarks without compromising identity.
Despite the constraints, we met all the deemed-to-comply standards—and secured a smooth planning process.
What’s Next for Clause 55?
This update to Clause 55 is more than a technical rewrite. It signals a broader shift in Victorian planning—one that favours compact, sustainable, liveable housing in walkable, well-serviced areas.
Future updates may deepen integration with climate policy, include embodied carbon benchmarks, or further incentivise quality affordable housing. What’s clear is that design quality is no longer negotiable—it’s embedded in every corner of the Code.
Final Thoughts
Clause 55 is evolving—fast. For architects and designers, it means learning to design smarter: tighter envelopes, better materials, and real sustainability. For communities, it promises better homes in better neighbourhoods.
The challenge? To not just comply, but to elevate—to make each small infill project a celebration of place, performance and liveability.
FAQs
1. What is the “deemed-to-comply” pathway?
A streamlined planning path where full compliance with Clause 55 standards means automatic approval, no subjective assessment, and no third-party objections.
2. What’s the new tree canopy rule?
For sites under 1,000m², at least 10% of the lot must be shaded by trees (existing or new) at maturity. Smart landscape design is key.
3. Do all rooms have minimum size requirements now?
Yes. Bedrooms and living areas must meet minimum sizes and be functional, per the updated internal amenity standards.
4. Is shading of north-facing windows now compulsory?
Yes. All north-facing windows must include appropriate summer shading—via eaves, pergolas or similar devices.
5. Can bedroom windows overlook neighbours now?
Yes. Overlooking controls no longer apply to bedroom windows—only to living areas and private open space.
