Changes that would allow apartments near train stations or light rail stops to be built without parking could increase resident opposition to projects in parts of Sydney, an industry group has warned.

The new parking measures, proposed for 22 council areas including North Sydney, Parramatta, Strathfield and Waverley, are part of a raft of changes to apartment design standards announced by Planning Minister Pru Goward.

Proposed changes to design standards would allow new builds close to public transport to be built without car parking. Credit:Belinda Pratten

Ms Goward said the new guidelines, which also allow for more flexibility around apartment design, set a minimum size for studio units and introduced greater noise protections, would improve housing choice and put downward pressure on house prices.

"A car space can add up to $50,000 to the cost of a new apartment, so providing more flexibility around car parking requirements could lead to savings of up to the same amount for homebuyers," Ms Goward said.