Dual Occupancy Design
Maximise your land value with a dual occupancy development — two independent dwellings on a single title. Whether you're investing, building for family, or planning to subdivide, PD Studio manages everything from feasibility and design through to planning permits, working drawings and subdivision support. Our designs are fully compliant with Amendment VC267 and the Townhouse and Low-Rise Code.
- Feasibility Studies
- VC267 Compliant Dual Occupancy Design
- Planning Permit Applications
- Subdivision Support
- Working Drawings & Building Permits
Our Dual Occupancy Process
Melbourne's planning rules for dual occupancy have changed. We know the new VC267 and VC288 codes inside out — and we use them to get your project approved faster.
Site Suitability & Feasibility
We assess your property's zone, minimum lot size, setbacks, overlooking controls and subdivision potential to determine whether a dual occupancy is viable — and whether it qualifies for the fast-track VicSmart pathway under Amendment VC288.
Dual Occupancy Design
We produce VC267-compliant designs that maximise floor area, private open space and natural light on your site. Each dwelling is designed to feel complete and private — whether for investment, rental or owner-occupation.
Planning Permit & Council Approval
We prepare and lodge your planning permit application across all Melbourne councils, manage neighbour notification, respond to objections and attend VCAT hearings if required. Where eligible under VC288, we target the VicSmart 10-business-day approval pathway.
Working Drawings & Subdivision
Full construction documentation for the building permit, plus subdivision plan preparation to create separate titles for each dwelling — maximising the long-term value of your investment.
Free Quote — No Obligation
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FAQ
Common questions about dual occupancy design and planning in Melbourne
A dual occupancy is two dwellings on a single title — either attached (sharing a common wall) or detached (separate structures on the same lot). Both dwellings can be rented, one owner-occupied and one rented, or the lot can be subdivided to create two separate titles after the planning permit is issued.
Introduced in March 2025, VC267 created a statewide Townhouse and Low-Rise Code that standardises how Melbourne councils assess dual occupancy applications, reducing minimum setback requirements and providing deemed-to-comply provisions.
Amendment VC288 (from October 2025) introduced a fast-track VicSmart approval pathway for eligible dual occupancy projects and two-lot subdivisions. Qualifying applications receive a decision within 10 business days.
If your site qualifies under VC288, these changes represent a significant opportunity to reduce approval risk, cut holding costs and accelerate your timeline. Contact us for a free site assessment to find out.
Minimum lot size requirements vary by zone and council. Under the Townhouse and Low-Rise Code, the General Residential Zone typically requires a minimum 400m² per dwelling — so a 500–600m² lot may support a dual occupancy.
Yes, in almost all cases. VicSmart-eligible projects under VC288 are decided within 10 business days; standard applications take 60–120 days depending on the council and whether objections are received.
Yes — this is one of the most common reasons clients pursue dual occupancy. Once construction is complete, a two-lot subdivision creates separate certificates of title for each dwelling.
Fees depend on site complexity, dwelling sizes and scope. PD Studio provides a fixed-fee quote after a free site assessment so you know exactly what's involved before committing.
We work across all Melbourne metropolitan councils and regional Victoria, including Whittlesea, Hume, Moreland, Darebin, Brimbank, Wyndham, Casey, Knox and Maroondah.
Client Testimonials
What Our Clients Say
5.0 · 53 Google reviews
"Working with Albert and PD Studio was an absolute pleasure. Their professionalism and dedication to client service are truly exceptional. Every time I reached out, they were prompt, attentive, and went above and beyond to help."
"Very happy with the service from PD Studio. The turnaround time is fast, and communication is always clear with regular feedback throughout the process. They consistently provide practical recommendations on building materials."
"I'd like to share my experience with PDSTUDIO from start to finish. Albert and Zeyn were outstanding in their communication, both face to face and via email. I can't thank them enough for their professionalism and support."
"PD STUDIOS is an elite architecture firm. Excellent design, great communication, and very professional. If you want quality work and a smooth process, this is the team to go with."
"PD Studio made our dual occupancy development seamless. Their expertise in planning permits and council requirements saved us months of work."
"Excellent architectural service. They maximised our block potential and handled all subdivision paperwork professionally."