The NSW Government has recently passed legislation to streamline the approval of granny flats. There are several reasons for this legislation coming into effect the main one being that the government recognises the growing shortage of rental accommodation in NSW as well as the desire of many homeowners to utilise otherwise wasted land as an income producing asset.
Recent changes to planning legislation in NSW encourage the provision of affordable accommodation. And as part of these changes, a secondary dwelling (more commonly known as a granny flat) can be approved within weeks.
According to the planning legislation, a secondary dwelling is a self-contained dwelling which:
- Is in addition, and in conjunction with the principal dwelling
- Is on the same lot of land as the principal dwelling
- Is normally separate from the principal dwelling, but may also be located within, or attached to the principal dwelling.
The essential criterion for a secondary dwelling site under the “granny flat planning legislation” is as follow:
- The site must be located in New South Wales
- The site must be zoned residential use
- The site must have a minimum area of 450 square metres
- The site must have minimum frontage of 12 metres
- The secondary dwelling must be set back from the rear boundary by 3 metres, and by 0.9 metres from the side boundary
- The land cannot be subdivided
- The land must comply with the LEP of your council
- The building must meet the requirements of the Building Code of Australia
- The secondary dwellings’ habitable space must be no greater than 60 square metres.
Australian Granny Flat Builders will take care of the entire approvals process for you. We’ll coordinate and liaise with the Surveyor, the Architect, the Engineer and the Private Certifier to ensure a speedy and hassle-free outcome, as part of our service to you.
For an obligation free consultation at your home please send us your details via the form below or call our head office on 0410 008 218.
