CLAUSE 55.05 SUSTAINABILITY REPORTS

Clause 55.05 Sustainability Reports

For Residential Developments up to 3 Storeys in Victoria

From 31 March 2025, Victoria’s updated planning provisions mandate enhanced sustainability standards for residential developments up to three storeys. Clause 55.05 of the Low Rise and Medium Density Housing Code (Amendment VC267) introduces specific Environmental Sustainable Design (ESD) requirements that must be addressed during the planning application process.

Why Is a Clause 55.05 Sustainability Report Required?

Clause 55.05 outlines seven key sustainability standards that apply to developments involving two or more dwellings on a lot or residential buildings (excluding high-rise apartments). Applicants are required to demonstrate compliance with these standards, or otherwise propose an alternative response which meets the same objectives in line with the decision guidelines.

Key Sustainability Standards Under Clause 55.05

Permeability and Stormwater Management (Standard B5-1): Ensures that at least 20% of the site is permeable and that stormwater runoff is managed effectively, often requiring modeling tools like STORM or MUSIC.
Overshadowing of Existing Solar Energy Systems (Standard B5-2): Requires new developments to avoid overshadowing existing rooftop solar panels between 9 AM and 4 PM on 22 September.
Rooftop Solar Energy Generation Area (Standard B5-3): Mandates the allocation of unobstructed rooftop space for future solar panel installation, with specific area requirements based on dwelling size.
Solar Protection to New North-Facing Windows (Standard B5-4): Requires appropriate shading (e.g., eaves or awnings) for north-facing windows to reduce summer heat gain.
Waste and Recycling (Standard B5-5): Ensures adequate provision for waste and recycling facilities, including space allocation and accessibility.
Noise Impacts (Standard B5-6): Addresses the placement and treatment of mechanical equipment to minimize noise impacts on residents.
Energy Efficiency (Standard B5-7):
Applies to apartment developments, requiring compliance with energy performance standards, often demonstrated through preliminary NatHERS assessments.