Building envelopes

Building envelopes set design parameters for development on a lot. These design parameters can be described by diagrams, plans or written descriptions, or a combination of both.

Building envelopes can manage the same range of matters as the residential development provisions in effect in Victoria:

• Residential subdivision: the development provisions allow for the creation of building envelopes
• Single dwellings: the Building Regulations 2018 recognise building envelopes in certain circumstances

The Building Envelopes Information Kit (First Edition, June 2003) provides information for land subdividers, land surveyors, town planners, municipal councils, housing designers and building surveyors on creating, assessing and applying building envelopes.

Single dwellings are assessed against Part 5 of the Building Regulations 2018. For more information see Practice Note 02 - Building Envelopes and Part 5 of the Building Regulations 2018, published by the Victorian Building Authority (VBA).

Note: the VBA is currently reviewing the practice notes.

Building Envelopes Information Kit

The Building Envelopes Information Kit (First Edition, June 2003) provides information on the design, approval and application of building envelopes that are created through planning permits for residential subdivision.

The kit is divided into six parts: