Building in Melbourne: Knockdown Rebuild, Granny Flat & Duplex Guide
Melbourne City Council (VIC) · Indicative rules and costs for homeowners · 中文报告同样支持
Min lot (KDR)
200㎡
Max height
11m
Setbacks (front/side)
3m / 0m
DA timeline
24–60 wks
Fast-track CDC
Usually DA only
Build cost
$3500–$7000/㎡
📊 Indicative ranges from council planning controls and recent market data — not quotes, and individual blocks vary.
Inner city. Most lots are apartments. KDR rare but possible for detached in Parkville etc.
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Get my free feasibility report →Frequently asked questions — Melbourne
Can I knock down and rebuild in Melbourne?
Generally yes — Melbourne City Council requires a minimum lot of around 200㎡ for a standard knockdown rebuild, with a maximum building height of 11m. Most projects need a full DA (development application).
How long does council approval take in Melbourne?
A DA through Melbourne City Council typically takes 24–60 weeks in practice.
How much does it cost to build in Melbourne?
Typical build costs around Melbourne run $3,500–$7,000 per square metre of floor area, plus demolition of roughly $22,000–$45,000. These are indicative ranges, not quotes.
Can I build a granny flat in Melbourne?
Most VIC councils allow secondary dwellings subject to lot size and overlay rules — check Melbourne City Council's planning scheme or run a free feasibility report.
What are the main risks for building projects in Melbourne?
For the Melbourne City Council area: heritage risk is high, flood risk is low, bushfire risk is low. Inner city. Most lots are apartments. KDR rare but possible for detached in Parkville etc.
Nearby areas under Melbourne City Council
This page provides general guidance for the Melbourne City Council area and is not advice about any specific property. Planning controls change — always confirm with council or run a block-specific feasibility report. © 2026 AusBuildCircle 澳洲建房圈.