"All strata schemes are subject to a set of by-laws.  They're essential for the smooth running of every strata scheme even though they can cause their share of issues.  If you're involved in strata, it would be wise to familiarise yourself with the standard by-laws for your scheme as well as any special ones specifically setup by the Owners Corporation.  Here's a brief explanation of what's involved along with the usual links to some helpful 'additional reading' resources."

By-laws are made to facilitate the administration and harmony of the strata scheme.  They cover the use of common property and the behaviour of residents.  There are standard by-laws for all the different types of strata schemes and the Owners Corporation may, at a general meeting, decide to add, repeal or amend the by-laws of the scheme.  By-laws can cover such things as:

• Parking
• Keeping of pets
• Garbage disposal
• Floor coverings
• Use of facilities and common property
• Behaviour of residents - noise, etc
• Security and Safety measures
• architectural and landscaping guidelines
• other matters appropriate to the type of strata scheme concerned

All residents (tenants and owners) must adhere to the by-laws.  A search should be made at the NSW Dept of Lands website to determine the by-laws registered for a particular strata scheme.

Standard By-Laws
For strata schemes registered before 1st July, 1997

The by-laws in Schedule 1 of the Strata Schemes Management Act 1996(NSW) apply to these schemes as well as any changes registered at the Land and Property Information website.

Model By-laws
For strata schemes registered after 1st July, 1997

When the Strata Schemes Management Act 1996(NSW) came into being, model by-laws were introduced for the various types of schemes, ie residential, commercial, industrial, hotel/resort, commercial/retail, mixed use.  Unless customised by-laws are lodged with the strata plan, the appropriate model by-laws are used.  A search should also be made at the Land and Property Information website to find out details of the registered by-laws.

NOTE: Refer to the Strata Schemes Management Regulation 2005(NSW) - Part9:Schedules 1 thru 6 for details of model by-laws.

How are by-laws amended, added or repealed?
By special resolution of the Owners Corporation at a general meeting unless the by-law to be changed requires a unanimous resolution.

EXTERNAL SOURCES:  The owners of this website do not make any warranty or representations regarding the information, products, services or qualifications of any external sources listed on this website.  Readers should make their own appropriate enquiries regarding accuracy, qualifications, licences, etc.  The owners of this website will not be responsible or liable in any way for any representations made by any external sources listed on this website.

IMPORTANT NOTE:  This website deals with strata matters in NSW, Australia only.  Legislation varies in different states and territories and in other countries.  For information pertaining to places outside of NSW, Australia please refer to the appropriate legislation for your region.

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