Brisbane City Council is moving ahead with significant planning changes designed to increase housing supply and create more opportunities for smaller homes and residential development. The More Homes, Sooner – Low-medium density residential design amendment proposes changes to minimum lot sizes, building heights and subdivision opportunities across Brisbane. For property owners considering subdivision, these changes could create new opportunities – but the rules are more nuanced than simply allowing smaller blocks.
Smaller lots in Low-medium Density Residential Areas
One of the most significant proposed changes affects properties within the Low-medium density residential (LMR) zone.
Council’s amendment proposes a minimum lot size of 120m² for certain small-lot housing developments, where specific design and built-form requirements are satisfied. This is a substantial reduction from existing minimum lot-size provisions that can require significantly larger sites. The changes are intended to support housing such as small-lot houses, terraces, duplexes and other forms of medium-density living.
In selected Key Locations, particularly areas close to centres and high-frequency public transport, Council is also proposing greater development potential, including multiple dwellings of up to four storeys and 14 metres, subject to the applicable requirements. This could make some Brisbane properties considerably more attractive for redevelopment.
More opportunities in Low-density Residential Areas
The proposed changes also have implications for traditional Low-density residential (LDR) properties. Under the existing provisions, a property may be eligible for subdivision into 300m² lots where it is within 200 metres walking distance of a qualifying centre. Council is proposing to increase this distance to 300 metres.
That extra 100 metres could make a meaningful difference. For example, a property that previously fell outside the 200-metre walking-distance threshold could potentially qualify under the proposed 300-metre provision.
The important catch: 120m² does not mean every block can be subdivided
It is important not to assume that the new minimum lot size means every Brisbane property can simply be divided into 120m² blocks. Subdivision is assessed against the property’s zoning, neighbourhood plan, overlays, frontage, access, stormwater requirements, site characteristics and applicable development codes. Council describes subdivision as reconfiguring a lot, and the assessment pathway depends on the circumstances of the proposed development.
There can also be significant development costs. Brisbane’s current Infrastructure Charges Resolution commenced on 1 July 2026, and applicable infrastructure charges depend on the development and demand generated.
What should property owners do?
Before purchasing a property with subdivision in mind, or assuming your existing property can benefit from the new rules, obtain professional advice and check the property’s current City Plan provisions. The More Homes, Sooner LMR amendment remains listed by Council as an amendment in progress, with adoption and commencement subject to the formal planning process.
At Tenure Solutions, we recommend assessing the planning position, title, survey requirements and subdivision pathway before committing to a development strategy. A small change in zoning, frontage or applicable overlay can make a substantial difference to what is achievable.
Thinking about subdividing in Brisbane? The new rules may create opportunities, but the key is understanding exactly what applies to your property before you act. Call us.
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