Balustrade
Balustrade: the railing system required on decks and balconies where there is a fall of 1 m or more. NCC 2022 sets minimum height at 1,000 mm.
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A balustrade is a railing system installed along the open edge of a deck, balcony, staircase, or landing to prevent people from falling. Under NCC 2022 Housing Provisions Part 11.3, a balustrade is mandatory where there is a potential fall of 1 m or more from the finished floor surface to the ground below.
Minimum height requirements under NCC 2022 Housing Provisions: 1,000 mm above the finished floor level for decks and balconies; 865 mm above stair nosings. Openings must not permit a 125 mm sphere to pass through. Where the fall exceeds 4 m, horizontal elements between 150 mm and 760 mm above floor level must not facilitate climbing (non-climbable zone).
Common materials: timber, aluminium, steel, tensioned stainless wire (316 grade), and toughened or laminated glass panels.
Also known as: barrier, handrail system, deck railing, balcony railing
Category: Building element, safety
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Last updated: 2026-05-08. Verified: 2026-05-08.