Thinking about adding a granny flat to your property? You’re not alone! Whether it’s for extra space, a rental opportunity, or a cozy place for family to stay, a granny flat can be a smart and rewarding addition. But before you dive in, it’s worth understanding what’s actually allowed and what you’ll need to plan for.
So, What Exactly Is a Granny Flat?
A granny flat—sometimes called a secondary dwelling—is a smaller, self-contained home built on the same block as your main house. It usually has its own bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and living area. Some people use it for parents or adult kids, while others turn it into a rental for extra income.
Can You Build One on Your Property?
In most cases, yes—but it depends on your local council’s rules. Every area has its own requirements about where and how granny flats can be built.
Here are a few common things councils look at:
Land size: Many councils require at least 450m² of land.
Zoning: Your property usually needs to be zoned for residential use.
Setbacks and open space: You’ll need to maintain enough distance from property boundaries and leave some yard space.
Keep in mind that granny flats can’t be sold separately from your main home—they stay under the same property title.
How the Approval Process Works
There are usually two ways to get the green light for your granny flat:
Complying Development Certificate (CDC): If your design ticks all the standard boxes, this is a faster approval route.
Development Application (DA): If your design is a little different, this process takes longer but allows for more flexibility.
If this sounds a bit overwhelming—don’t worry! A good design team (like ours at DMR Designs) can guide you through the steps and make sure everything meets council requirements.
Planning Your Granny Flat
Before you start sketching out ideas, think about a few key things:
Purpose: Is it for family, guests, or rental income?
Budget: Factor in design, approvals, construction, and connections.
Design style: Match it with your main home while keeping it functional and comfortable.
Access and privacy: Separate entrances are a big plus for both homes.
When planned well, a granny flat can add value, flexibility, and long-term benefits to your property.
Bringing It All Together
Building a granny flat can be a fantastic way to make the most of your property—whether you’re thinking about family needs, boosting your home’s value, or creating an extra source of income. The key is understanding your local council’s rules, planning the right design, and getting the right approvals in place. With the right team by your side, the process can be smoother and more rewarding than you might think.
Ready to Explore the Possibilities?
Whether you’re building for family or creating a new income stream, DMR Designs can help you bring your ideas to life—from concept and design to approvals and construction drawings.
Start your design journey with DMR Designs.
We’d love to chat about your plans and help you bring them to life — explore our website to learn more about what we do or book a discovery call to get started on your dream project.