Let's face it - property zones can be confusing. Whether you're looking to buy your first home in The Gap or thinking of selling your home in Paddington, understanding Brisbane's zoning rules can impact the value, both now and in the future, of your property. We've broken down the essentials to help you understand how property zoning works.
What is a Property Zone?
Simply put, property zones (or land-use zones) are the rules set by Brisbane City Council that determine what you can and can't do with a piece of land. Think of them as a blueprint for how different parts of our city should grow and develop.
Common Zones in Brisbane
Residential Areas
Brisbane's residential zones come in three main classifications:
- Low Density: These are areas with traditional Queenslanders and family homes (think Ashgrove or Chapel Hill)
- Medium Density: Where you'll find townhouses and smaller unit blocks, common in areas like Toowong
- High Density: Home to apartment towers, particularly around spots like Kangaroo Point and South Brisbane
Mixed Use Areas
These are the precincts where people both live and work. You'll see plenty of these around areas such as Nundah Village or Oxford Street in Bulimba, where cafes and shops sit below residential apartment buildings.
Commercial Zones
These range from your local shops to major business districts:
- Neighbourhood Centres: Like the string of shops along Kedron Brook Road
- District Centres: Think Indooroopilly Shopping Centre or Carindale
- Principal Centre: Our CBD
Industrial Zones
These are kept separate from housing areas - places like the Eagle Farm industrial precinct or the warehouse districts in Rocklea. You will likely find warehouses and manufacturing businesses in this location.
Brisbane's Heritage Properties
Finally, Brisbane's heritage properties add character to our suburbs, from the grand Queenslanders in Ascot to the workers' cottages in Spring Hill. While these homes often sell at a premium, they come with special rules:
- You'll need approval for most changes
- Some areas have strict rules about paint colours and fencing
- Extensions need to complement the original building
Whilst there is a market for heritage-listed property, the restrictions can mean there is less competition for these properties.
Changing Property Zones: Is It Possible?
While you can apply to change a property's zoning, it's not a simple process. The council needs to be convinced it's good for the neighbourhood, and your neighbours get a say too. We've seen successful rezoning around transport hubs like the Ferny Grove station precinct, where some areas were changed to allow for more apartments and shops. Generally, rezoning happens as part of the councils plan to support the changing population.
Working From Home or Running a Business from a Private Residence?
Since COVID changed how we work, this is a hot topic. Most Brisbane homes can be used for business, with some common-sense limits:
- Your home should still look like a home, not a shop
- Keep noise and extra traffic to a minimum
- Check with council before putting up any business signs
How Zoning Affects Property Values
Zoning can impact a property's value. For example:
- A house near Ferny Grove station might be worth more if it's zoned for units, as it could appeal to someone looking to develop the site
- Properties along Given Terrace in Paddington may carry a premium price because their mixed-use zoning allows both shops and homes, making it a more desirable location
Whether you're eyeing a cottage in Red Hill or planning to develop in Chermside, understanding zoning is key to making smart property decisions. If you need more specific advice about property zones in your area, contact us. We're always happy to share our local knowledge and help you understand what's possible with your property.