RemodoBuilding setbacks explained: front, side and rear
A setback is the minimum distance a building must sit from a property boundary. They shape how much of your block you can build on. Here's how the four setbacks work and roughly what to expect — always confirmed against your council's controls.
What a setback is
Every standard block has four setback zones: the front, the two sides and the rear. Each sets a minimum distance between a new structure and that boundary, which together define the 'building envelope' you can build within.
Setbacks are set by local councils (and, for fast-track pathways, by state codes), so the exact numbers vary by location, zone and lot size.
Why councils require them
Setbacks protect light, ventilation and privacy between homes, help preserve neighbourhood character, reduce fire spread, and keep room for landscaping, drainage and services. Rear areas are often given more space to preserve private open space.
Typical distances (indicative only)
As a rough guide for residential blocks: front setbacks often fall around 5–7.5 m, side setbacks around 0.9–1.5 m, and rear setbacks around 3–8 m depending on the council, zone and building height.
These are indicative ranges, not rules for your site. Corner lots, larger or two-storey buildings, and overlays (heritage, bushfire, flooding) frequently change the required distances.
How to check yours
Your applicable distances come from your council's Development Control Plan (or the relevant state code for complying development). Remodo can overlay indicative setbacks on your block so you can see the buildable envelope before you design — then verify the exact figures with your council.
Frequently asked
What is a building setback?＋
The minimum distance a building must be kept from a property boundary — measured separately for the front, sides and rear.
Why do setbacks exist?＋
They protect light, air, privacy and neighbourhood character, reduce fire risk, and leave room for drainage and landscaping.
What are typical setback distances?＋
Indicatively, front ~5–7.5 m, sides ~0.9–1.5 m, rear ~3–8 m — but exact figures are set by your council and vary by zone and building height.
See it on your own block
Remodo overlays indicative zoning and setbacks on your property, so you can test a granny flat or extension in 3D before you commit. Start free with 50 credits.
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This content is general information only and is not planning, legal or professional advice. While we aim to keep these guides accurate and current, planning laws change frequently and vary by state, council/LGA, zone and site-specific controls (flooding, bushfire, heritage, easements and more). Figures quoted are indicative and may be out of date.
Remodo makes no warranty as to the accuracy, completeness or currency of this information and accepts no liability for any loss arising from reliance on it. Always confirm the requirements for your specific property with your local council or the relevant state planning portal, and seek advice from a qualified planner, certifier or lawyer before making decisions or starting work.