Calculator · F2

Sanitary Facilities

Minimum NCC-compliant sanitary facilities by building class and occupancy. Results show male and female columns separately with ambulant toilet notes.

NCC 2022 Vol. 1 · Part F2 · Table F2D3 · F2D6
Building details
Calculated occupancy load (D1) or briefed headcount
Calculator · D3

Stair Geometry

Check whether a proposed riser / going combination satisfies NCC 2022 DTS requirements. Maximum riser is 190 mm for all stair types under NCC 2022.

NCC 2022 Vol. 1 · D3D12 · AS 1657:2018
Stair parameters

NCC 2022 stair geometry — quick reference
Stair typeRiser (R)Going (G)FormulaMin. headroom
Main stair (Class 2–9)115–190 mm250–355 mm2R+G = 550–700 mm2000 mm
Private stair (Class 1 / sole occ.)115–190 mm240–355 mm2R+G = 550–700 mm2000 mm
External stair115–190 mm250–355 mm2R+G = 550–700 mm2000 mm
190 mm is the maximum riser for all stair types under NCC 2022 D3D12. Earlier editions (pre-NCC 2022) permitted 205 mm for private stairs — this is no longer applicable. Spiral, curved, and alternating-tread stairs have separate provisions. Handrail, landing, and stair width requirements are not covered by this calculator.
Indicative only. Confirm stair geometry with your RBS. AS 1657:2018 applies to industrial stairs in Class 7b and 8 buildings.
Calculator · D1

Occupancy Load

Estimate design occupancy using NCC Table D1D5 space allocation factors. The result feeds into sanitary facility, egress width, and exit number calculations.

NCC 2022 Vol. 1 · D1D5 · Table D1D5
Space details
Where the actual number of occupants is known and greater than the calculated figure, the known number must be used (NCC D1D5(3)). Mixed-use floors: sum the occupancy load of each area separately.
Occupancy load estimates are for NCC DTS compliance purposes. Confirm with RBS for complex or high-density uses.
Reference · Vol. 1

BCA Sections

Summary of each Volume One Section of the NCC — what it covers and when it applies.

NCC 2022 Volume One — Sections A through J
Volume 1 — Sections A to J

Section A establishes the administrative framework for the entire NCC. It defines how the Code is applied, interpreted, and enforced, and sets out all compliance pathways.

PartSubjectKey content
A1Interpreting the NCCDefinitions, abbreviations, referenced documents, how to read the Code
A2Compliance pathwaysDTS (Deemed-to-Satisfy) vs Performance Solution — both are valid. Performance Solutions require documented evidence.
A3Application of NCCWhen the NCC applies: new buildings, alterations, change of use, additions. Existing buildings only triggered by building work.
A4Referenced documentsAustralian Standards and other legislation referenced by the NCC as part of compliance
A5DocumentationWhat documentation is required to demonstrate compliance via Performance Solution
A6Building classificationClasses 1–10 defined; mixed-use buildings; reclassification triggers; Class 10 sub-classifications
Key principle: the NCC applies to building work, not to existing buildings in isolation. The scope of compliance is determined by the extent and nature of the proposed work. Where a change of use occurs without physical works, the NCC may still be triggered for the relevant Class.

Section B requires buildings to withstand structural actions throughout their design life without collapse, excessive deformation, or damage. References the structural engineering standards suite.

PartSubjectKey standards
B1Structural provisionsApplies to all building classes. Dead, live, wind, snow, earthquake, and dynamic loads. References AS/NZS 1170 series, AS 3600, AS 4100, AS 1720.1, AS 2870
For heritage buildings: structural works to existing fabric must satisfy B1 for the new work. Performance Solutions are often appropriate where the heritage fabric is to be retained and full DTS compliance would require removal of significant fabric. Document significance before proposing structural intervention.

Section C governs passive fire resistance — how long structural elements, walls, and floors resist fire. Determines Type of Construction (A, B, or C) and sets compartmentation and fire separation requirements.

PartSubject
C1Type of construction — determined by Class and effective height. Type A (highest) for tall buildings; Type C for low-rise
C2Compartmentation and separation — fire-rated walls, floors, and openings limit fire spread between building parts
C3Protection of openings — fire doors, dampers, penetration seals in fire-rated elements
C4Specific requirements for Class 2–9 — FRL requirements by element, Class, and construction type
FRL is expressed as three numbers: Structural Adequacy / Integrity / Insulation (minutes). A value of –/60/30 means no structural requirement, 60 min integrity, 30 min insulation. See the Fire Protection panel for Type of Construction triggers.

Section D governs movement into, through, and out of buildings under normal conditions and in emergencies. Covers exits, travel distances, stair geometry, and accessible design.

PartSubject
D1Provision of exits — number, travel distances, occupant numbers, exit widths. Use Occupancy Load calculator for D1D5
D2Construction of exits — fire-isolated stairways, doorways, corridors
D3Stair and ramp construction — riser/going, handrails, landings, balustrades, headroom. Use Stair Geometry calculator
D4Accessible design — which buildings and areas require accessible paths of travel, features, and facilities. References AS 1428.1:2021. See Accessibility panel

Section E addresses active fire protection — equipment and services that detect, contain, and suppress fire, and warn/assist occupants. See the Fire Protection panel for full trigger conditions by system type.

PartSubject
E1Fire fighting services — hydrant systems, hose reels, portable extinguishers, fire control rooms
E2Smoke hazard management — detection, mechanical smoke exhaust, pressurisation systems
E3Lift emergency operation — fire service lift requirements for tall buildings (>25 m)
E4Emergency lighting and exit signs — minimum lux levels, duration, location
E5Sprinkler systems — when required, types, design to AS 2118 series
E6Fire detection and early warning — smoke alarms, detectors, interconnected systems (AS 1670.1)

Section F covers built environment conditions affecting occupant health and comfort — sanitary facilities, natural light, ventilation, sound insulation, and room sizes.

PartSubject
F1Damp and weatherproofing — subfloor, walls, roof, wet areas, drainage
F2Sanitary and other facilities — toilets, basins, showers, drinking water. Use the Sanitary Facilities calculator
F3Room sizes and heights — minimum floor areas and ceiling heights by use and Class
F4Light and ventilation — natural requirements; artificial lighting and mechanical ventilation as alternatives
F5Sound transmission and insulation — separating walls and floors between dwellings (Class 2, 3). STC and Rw+Ctr ratings required
F6Swimming pools — fencing and safety requirements
F7Facilities in Class 2 and 3 — laundry, storage, and kitchen requirements for residential occupancies
PartSubject
G1Minor structures and components
G2Boilers, pressure vessels, heating appliances — fixed heating installation requirements
G3Atrium construction — fire safety for multi-storey atriums; smoke management and egress
G4Alpine areas — additional structural requirements for snow loads; designated alpine areas in Victoria
G5Bushfire areas — when BAL ratings apply and construction requirements by BAL level. See BAL Ratings panel

Section H contains provisions for specific building types — primarily residential — requiring additional or modified requirements beyond other sections.

PartSubject
H1Class 1 buildings — single dwellings; condensed provisions from D, F, J and other sections
H2Class 2 buildings — apartment-specific provisions: sound, accessibility, laundry, energy
H3Class 3 buildings — residential care, hostels; additional amenity requirements
H4Class 4 parts — caretaker's dwellings within non-residential buildings
H6Energy efficiency for Class 1 and 10 — NatHERS pathway (7-star min.) or DTS elemental provisions
H7Energy efficiency for Class 2 — apartment-specific energy requirements
H8Liveable housing design — new NCC 2022; silver-level accessible features mandatory for Class 1a and 2
H8 (Liveable Housing Design) is mandatory in NCC 2022 and represents a significant new compliance area for residential projects. Key features: wider doorways (820 mm clear), step-free entry, accessible toilet, reinforced bathroom walls for future grab rails. Confirm mandatory vs conditional provisions with your RBS.

Section I requires that buildings are designed and constructed so that NCC-required features remain effective and can be maintained throughout the building's life. In practice, access must be provided to fire safety services, structural elements, and other regulated systems for inspection and maintenance.

For complex buildings, a maintenance schedule or Building Management Statement may be required as a condition of the building permit.

Section J sets energy efficiency requirements for non-residential buildings and common areas of Class 2 and 3. See the Part J — Energy panel for detail by building class.

PartSubject
J2Building fabric — glazing, roof, wall, and floor insulation R-values and U-values
J3Building sealing — controlled ventilation openings, draught sealing requirements
J4HVAC — system efficiency (COPs, SEER), zoning, controls, variable speed drives
J5Artificial lighting and power — lighting power density (LPD) limits, occupancy sensors, daylight linking
J6Hot water systems — efficiency ratings, solar, heat pump provisions
J7Facilities for energy monitoring — metering and sub-metering in larger buildings
J8Onsite energy generation (new NCC 2022) — solar PV and battery storage provisions
Section summaries are indicative. The NCC is a performance-based document — read the relevant Part in full and confirm with your RBS. Volume Two applies to Class 1 and Class 10 buildings.
Reference · Section E & C

Fire Protection

When Type of Construction, FRL, and active fire systems are triggered under NCC 2022 Volume One.

NCC 2022 · Sections C & E · AS 2118 · AS 1670.1
Type of construction — trigger conditions
TypeEffective heightClassesFRL / key requirements
Type AOver 25 mClass 2–9Highest standard. All loadbearing elements require FRL. Structural elements typically 120/120/120. Non-loadbearing separating elements typically –/60/60 to –/120/60. Sprinklers generally required.
Type BOver 3 m to 25 mClass 2–9Intermediate. Loadbearing and separating elements require FRL. Loadbearing typically 90/90/90. Separating walls generally –/60/30 to –/90/60 depending on element and Class.
Type C3 m or lessClass 2–9Lowest standard. Most elements: no FRL required. Exception: separating walls and floors between SOUs in Class 2/3 still require –/60/60. Fire separation between different Classes still applies.
Effective height is measured from the lowest ground level to the floor of the topmost storey — not the overall building height. Mixed-Class buildings take the most onerous Type of Construction applicable to any Class present. An early fire engineer review is recommended for any building approaching 25 m or with mixed Classes.

Group ratings — materials
GroupMaterial characteristicApplication
Group 1Non-combustible throughoutRequired for wall and ceiling linings in Type A and B construction, and in Class 9a and 9b buildings
Group 2Low flammabilityAcceptable in Type B and C construction as an alternative to Group 1 for certain finishes
Group 3Low smoke and low flammabilityUsed in some Class 9a and 9b contexts for wall and ceiling linings where Group 1 is not achievable

Group ratings assessed under Specification C1.10 and referenced test standards. Verify with a fire engineer or materials supplier for specific products.


Active fire systems — trigger conditions

Fire hydrant systems provide water supply for fire brigade use. Required when:

  • Any Class 2–9 building with total floor area exceeding 500 m² (E1D4)
  • Any building over 25 m effective height (Type A construction)
  • Class 7b or 8 buildings over 18 m or floor area >2000 m²
  • Where the building cannot be served adequately by water mains — a static water supply or tank may substitute

Hydrant boosters must be installed where mains pressure is insufficient to reach the topmost storey. The system is designed to AS 2419.1:2021. Engage a hydraulic engineer early for any triggered building.

Hose reels provide first-attack fire fighting capability for occupants. Required when:

  • A hydrant system is required — hose reels are generally co-located
  • Class 5–9 buildings over 500 m² floor area
  • Coverage radius 36 m — every part of each floor must be reachable
  • Not required in Class 2 sole-occupancy units — only in common areas and non-residential buildings

Hose reels must be accessible, visible, and signed. Designed to AS 2441.

Sprinkler systems are required more broadly than commonly assumed. Key NCC 2022 triggers:

  • Class 2 and 3: Effective height exceeding 25 m, or any SOU at effective height over 25 m
  • Class 9a (health care): Required throughout, regardless of height or area (E5D2)
  • Class 9c (aged care): Required throughout
  • Class 5–8: Over 25 m effective height; or floor area >2000 m² (Class 7 and 8 specific triggers)
  • Class 9b: Theatres with more than 1000 persons; or over 12 m effective height in some sub-types
  • Trade-offs: Sprinklers may reduce required FRL, extend travel distances, and allow reduction in exit numbers — assess trade-offs early in design development
Sprinkler systems require a hydraulic engineer and specialist hydraulic design. Confirm with a fire engineer early for any building approaching a trigger threshold. The trade-offs available with sprinklers can substantially reduce overall construction costs.

Fire detection and warning systems range from single smoke alarms to fully monitored addressable systems. NCC 2022 requirements:

  • Class 1a: Smoke alarm in every bedroom, hallway adjacent to bedrooms, and each storey (H1D6). Interconnection required. 10-year lithium battery or hardwired with battery backup
  • Class 2: Smoke alarm in each SOU (as Class 1a provisions). Common areas: E6 system required in Type A and B buildings
  • Class 3, 5–9: Full fire detection system (AS 1670.1) required in Type A and B construction. Required throughout all Class 9a and 9c regardless of height
  • Class 9b: Required where effective height exceeds 12 m or occupant number exceeds 1000
  • Monitoring: Systems in Class 9a, 9c, and buildings over 25 m must be monitored by a monitoring station

Smoke hazard management (SHM) controls smoke movement to protect occupants during evacuation. Required when:

  • Buildings over 25 m effective height (Type A) — pressurisation of fire-isolated stairways and lift shafts
  • Class 9a, 9b, and 9c: specific SHM requirements in some cases regardless of height
  • Atrium buildings: specific SHM requirements under G3
  • Class 7a (car parks): mechanical ventilation designed to manage smoke; often combined with normal ventilation
SHM systems require a specialist mechanical engineer and often a fire engineer to develop the SHM strategy. Engage these consultants early for any Type A building or Class 9 project. Late-stage SHM design is a common cause of design conflicts and cost overruns.

Emergency lighting and exit signs are required in all Class 2–9 buildings and in Class 1b buildings. Key requirements:

  • Emergency lighting: minimum 0.2 lux average along escape routes; 90-minute battery backup
  • Exit signs: illuminated, directional, at every exit door and at changes of direction in escape routes
  • Class 1a: emergency lighting not required unless specified in planning permit. Smoke alarms serve as the warning system
  • All systems designed and tested to AS 2293.1:2018
Fire protection requirements are complex and interdependent. This reference is indicative only. A fire engineer should be engaged on all Class 9 buildings, all buildings over 25 m effective height, and any project where trade-offs between passive and active systems are being considered.
Reference · G5 · Section 3

BAL Ratings

Summary of design and construction requirements for each Bushfire Attack Level. Select a BAL to view key requirements and limitations.

NCC 2022 · G5 · Spec. G5.2 · AS 3959:2018
Select BAL rating
BAL ratings are assessed by a qualified bushfire consultant or relevant authority. In Victoria, BAL assessments must align with the Bushfire Management Overlay (BMO) and Planning Scheme requirements. Engage a BPAD-accredited consultant for any site within or near a BMO.
BAL requirements summarised from AS 3959:2018 and NCC 2022 Specification G5.2. Requirements may vary by jurisdiction. Always confirm with a bushfire consultant and your RBS.
Reference · Section J

Part J — Energy Efficiency

NCC 2022 Part J requirements by building class. Select a class to view applicable energy provisions and key design implications.

NCC 2022 · Section J · Section H6–H7 · NatHERS
Select building class
Part J requirements are complex and interdependent. A mechanical engineer, lighting designer, and energy assessor should be engaged on all Class 5–9 projects. For Class 1 and 2, confirm NatHERS assessor requirements with your RBS. Confirm the applicable NCC edition with your RBS.
Reference · D4 · AS 1428.1

Accessibility

Broad accessibility requirements by building class — paths of travel, stairs and ramps, and sanitary facilities. Select a class to view applicable provisions.

NCC 2022 · D4 · AS 1428.1:2021 · Premises Standards 2010
Select building class
AS 1428.1:2021 is the current version referenced by NCC 2022 Amendment 2, replacing AS 1428.1:2009 from 29 July 2025. For heritage buildings, a Performance Solution is often more appropriate than full DTS compliance — assess significance of affected fabric before proposing accessible upgrades.
Accessibility requirements are indicative. The Disability (Access to Premises — Buildings) Standards 2010 may impose additional obligations. Confirm requirements with your RBS and an accessibility consultant for all Class 3 and Class 5–9 buildings.
Reference · A6

Building Classification

Select a building use to find the correct NCC classification, what it covers, and key compliance triggers. Mixed-use buildings must be classified separately for each part.

NCC 2022 · A6 · Building Regulations 2018 (Vic)
Select use type
Mixed-use buildings must be classified separately for each part. Where different classes share a fire compartment, the most onerous requirements generally apply. Common areas of Class 2 buildings (corridors, lobbies, car parks) are treated as the dominant non-residential class. Confirm classification with your RBS before lodging a building permit application.
Building classification guidance is indicative. Classification is determined by the Relevant Building Surveyor (RBS) having regard to the actual proposed use, the building's design, and the relevant building regulations. This tool does not substitute for a classification determination by the RBS.
Calculator · D3 · D4

Ramp Checker

Check whether a proposed ramp satisfies NCC 2022 DTS requirements for gradient, rise, landing dimensions, and handrail requirements. Covers both general ramps (D3) and accessible ramps (AS 1428.1:2021).

NCC 2022 · D3D13 · D4 · AS 1428.1:2021
Ramp parameters
Enter the horizontal run component (1 : X)
Vertical height of a single ramp flight (between landings)
Clear length of landing (direction of travel)

NCC 2022 ramp requirements — quick reference
TypeMax gradientMin. clear widthMax flight riseMin. landing (L × W)
Accessible ramp (AS 1428.1)1:14 (preferred)
1:8 permitted for short ramps ≤1500 mm rise where 1:14 not achievable
1000 mm1500 mm (at 1:14)
500 mm at 1:8
1540 × 1540 mm (turning)
1000 × 1540 mm (passing)
General ramp D3 (non-accessible)1:81000 mmNo NCC limit, but landings required at ≤15 m intervalsMin. equal to ramp width × 1200 mm
Car park ramp (vehicle)1:5 (straight)
1:8 within 6 m of pedestrian path
3000 mm (one-way)
6000 mm (two-way)
N/ATransition grades apply near boundary and pedestrian crossings
For accessible ramps, the 1:14 gradient is strongly preferred and required where space permits. The 1:8 concession is only available where a 1:14 gradient is not achievable and the total rise does not exceed 1500 mm. All accessible ramps require handrails both sides at 865–1000 mm, 300 mm horizontal extensions, and a continuous top rail. Edge protection required on open sides. Colour contrast on edges and landings to AS 1428.1:2021.
Ramp checker is indicative only. Confirm with your RBS and accessibility consultant. Heritage buildings: where heritage fabric constraints prevent a compliant ramp, a Performance Solution should be developed in consultation with the RBS and Heritage Victoria.
Calculator · D4 · AS 2890.6

Accessible Parking

Calculate the minimum number of accessible car parking spaces required by NCC 2022 and AS 2890.6:2009, and check bay dimension compliance.

NCC 2022 · D4D5 · AS 2890.6:2009 · AS 1428.1:2021
Carpark details
Width of the accessible bay itself (not shared zone)
Adjacent shared access zone (may be shared between two bays)

Accessible bay dimensions — quick reference
ElementMinimum dimensionNotes
Bay width2400 mmMin. 2400 mm clear bay width. Where shared zone is on one side only, 3200 mm total (2400 bay + 800 shared zone) or two bays sharing a 2400 mm zone
Bay length5400 mmMin. 5400 mm clear length including any overhang allowance for vehicle overhang
Shared zone width2400 mm (dedicated)
1200 mm (shared between 2 bays)
Shared access zone may be shared between two adjacent accessible bays. Must be on the driver's side. AS 2890.6 Sec. 3.
Overhead clearance2500 mmMinimum 2500 mm overhead clearance throughout accessible path from the car park to the accessible building entry
Path from bay to entry1000 mm clear (min.)Accessible path of travel from each accessible bay to the accessible building entry — no steps, max 1:14 ramp where level change, AS 1428.1:2021
SignageInternational symbol of accessGround marking and vertical sign (1200–1400 mm AFF) at each accessible bay. AS 2890.6 and AS 1428.2.
Accessible parking requirements are indicative. The number and type of accessible bays required may also be governed by the planning permit, council car parking provisions, and Premises Standards 2010. Confirm with your RBS and a traffic consultant.
Reference · NCC 2022

NCC Part Finder

Find which NCC 2022 Part covers a specific topic. Search by keyword or browse by subject area.

NCC 2022 Volume One & Volume Two
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Browse all NCC parts
Part references are for NCC 2022 Volume One (Class 2–9) and Volume Two (Class 1 and 10). Volume Two uses a different section structure. Part numbers may change in future NCC editions — confirm with the current NCC publication at ncc.abcb.gov.au.
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