Guide
R-Codes explained
What the colours on the map mean and why they affect your block.
R-Codes are the Western Australian planning rules that govern residential density: how many dwellings a hectare can hold, the minimum lot size, and what you can build on it. They are set by the WA Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage (DPLH) and applied by your Local Government Authority (LGA).
Quick reference
| Code | Density | Typical lot | Used for |
|---|---|---|---|
| R5 | 5 dw/ha | ~2,000 m² | Rural-residential, fringe |
| R10 | 10 dw/ha | ~1,000 m² | Established outer suburbs |
| R20 | 20 dw/ha | ~450 m² | Most established suburbs |
| R30 | 30 dw/ha | ~300 m² | Subdividable single residential |
| R40 | 40 dw/ha | ~220 m² | Grouped dwellings, small infill |
| R60 | 60 dw/ha | ~120 m² | Multi-unit dwellings |
| R80 | 80 dw/ha | ~100 m² | Apartments, high-density infill |
| R100+ | 100+ dw/ha | varies | Inner-city, activity centres |
| R-AC0–4 | activity-centre codes | n/a | Mixed-use activity centres |
Why it matters when you're buying or selling
- Buying: the R-code tells you whether a block can be subdivided, whether you can put up a granny flat, and what neighbours can build.
- Selling: a higher R-code typically means higher developer interest and a wider buyer pool.
- Reading the map: each colour band represents a code. Click a property and the DNA panel surfaces the exact code plus its scheme reference.
Important caveat
The code shown on the map is the current published zoning. Local schemes can override or add overlays (heritage, bushfire, special control areas, etc.). Always confirm with your LGA before relying on the code for a purchase, subdivision plan, or building proposal.
Further reading
- Residential Design Codes (R-Codes), WA DPLH
- Your Local Government Authority's Local Planning Scheme.
Data attribution
State of Western Australia owns the intellectual property rights in the R-Code data. Source: Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage (DPLH), supplied via Landgate's Shared Location Information Platform (SLIP).Provided as a general guide only; confirm the current code with the relevant local government authority.