Site Requirements

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To save you time and stress, our expert approvals teams will prepare and submit all the applications and documents required to the Private Certifier and obtain approval for your new Granny Flat.

A Granny Flat Doesn’t Require Council Approval

In 2009, the NSW government released the Affordable Housing State Environment Planning Policy (SEPP), which permits all residential homeowners with property larger than 450m² (which also has a minimum 12m street frontage) to build a Granny Flat on their property if their property is considered to be complying.

With this change comes a new way of processing Granny Flat applications. Homeowners wanting to build a Granny Flat in their backyard are no longer required to obtain council approval as long as their application meets the minimum complying development requirements that have been set out.

What is a Granny Flat?

A Granny Flat is a self-contained secondary dwelling with a maximum living space of 60m², built in the backyard of an already existing house. While they don’t require council approval if your property meets the minimum site requirements (such as block size), a Granny Flat must adhere to other specific requirements as they need approval from a private certifier. What if

My Property Doesn’t Meet the Minimum Requirements?

If your property does not meet all the conditions required to be a complying development, your Granny Flat can still be approved by lodging a development application (DA), which can only be approved by your local council. Once again, our design consultant can take care of this whole process for you and submit all the applications and documents on your behalf.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Granny Flat the same as a tiny house?

A Granny Flat is a permanent secondary dwelling that can be a standalone building or attached to your main house. It is permitted to have a maximum living space of 60m². A tiny house is a movable dwelling with a maximum living space of 50m².

Can I build a Granny Flat where there is no primary dwelling?

Granny Flats can only be secondary dwellings. Building a Granny Flat is not permitted on blocks of land without a primary dwelling. However, if you are rebuilding your home, you are permitted to build a Granny Flat to live in while your main house is under construction.

Can my Granny Flat be two storeys?

As long as it meets Granny Flat setback requirements and height restrictions, your second dwelling can be two storeys.

What is an occupation certificate and how do I get one?

After building a Granny Flat, you’ll need an occupation certificate before anyone can legally live in the home. It is the final certificate in the approval process, and Granny Flat Solutions can help you obtain this.

What if I’m on bushfire-prone land?

You may not be able to do a complying development if your home is on bushfire-prone land, as you may need to meet stricter requirements. However, we can talk you through Bushfire Attack Level ratings and the approvals or modifications you may require.

Download Links

GFS-Complying-Development

Lot SizeSquare metres	Minimum Frontage Lineal metres	Site Coverage %	Total Floor Area including HouseSquare metres	Side SetbackLineal metres	Rear SetbackLineal metres	Landscaped Area%
450-600m²	12m	50%	330m²	0.9m	3m	20%
600-900m²	12m	50%	380m²	0.9m	3m	25%
900-1500m²	15m	40%	430m²	1.5m	5m	35%
>1500m²	18m	30%	430m²	2.5m	10m	45%

Additional Granny Flat Requirements

A maximum of 1 Granny Flat is permissible per lot.
The maximum floor area permissible for a granny flat is 60m².
Must have a 24m² courtyard space for the granny flat, with an area of at least 4m wide.
Conditions may apply if building in a bushfire, flood-affected or heritage area.
For battle-axe blocks, an access handle of at least 3m wide is required.
Off-street car parking for the Granny Flat is not essential.

Please Note

This summary has been prepared as an indicative tool to help explain the site planning requirements for a Granny Flat. There are other site conditions and requirements that will affect Granny Flat approval. A free site assessment is required to determine the appropriateness of a Granny Flat on your property.

What our customers say

Thank you very much to the team at Granny Flat Solutions!We initially engaged GFS in early 2024 to build a Granny Flat at the rear of my Mum’s property.The finished Granny Flat creation has become a cherished space for my Mum, offering both comfort and functionality. The attention to detail and high-quality craftsmanship are evident in every aspect of the build, from the stylish finishes to the efficient practical layout.GFS exceeded our expectations of a build like this, creating a space that is both modern and inviting. The experience was generally smooth and stress-free, thanks to the clear communication and dedication of the entire team. We are grateful for the exceptional work done by GFS and for their commitment to turning our vision into reality.The build did throw up a few minor issues along the way, but we were very pleased that GFS clearly identified and resolved all issues to our complete satisfaction.From start to finish, the GFS team were professional and obliging, and we would definitely recommend their building services to others looking for a genuine construction partner.

Heide Torr

3 months ago

I spent weeks viewing a number of granny flats, until I came across my new home in Rooty Hill. The quality of this granny flat left me with no choice but to sign the lease. I'm taken back by the design and quality of material, and when I phoned granny flat solutions for advise on setting up utilities and internet, they were incredibly helpful and took the time to explain everything in detail. In future, if I get the opportunity to build my own granny flat, this would be the company I'd go with.

Nicole-Kathryn Varacalli

5 months ago

I recently had a granny flat completed and handed over, and overall, my experience with GFS has been positive. Here's a summary of my journey:I initially engaged with GFS about two years ago when I was still house hunting. My goal was to find a property that would allow me to build a granny flat. I got Zoran’s contact from a real estate agent, and from there, I sent him over 20 addresses to check for suitability. Zoran patiently explained why those properties couldn't accommodate a granny flat, which I really appreciated.One year later, when I was financially ready to proceed, I reached out to several builders for quotes. In the end, I chose GFS because I felt most comfortable working with them.The process itself was smooth and straightforward. I worked with Neil as my project designer, and we made a few changes along the way due to budget constraints.My project manager, Pierre, was friendly and kept me updated throughout the build. I received weekly progress reports, which I found very helpful.The quality of the build was generally good.However, there were a couple of areas that didn’t meet expectations. The painting work, in particular, was a let down. The painter came back a few times to fix the issues and repeatedly told me that it was the best he could do. After the fixes, it became more acceptable, but it still wasn't perfect.Additionally, I noticed that some of the rubbish wasn’t placed in the designated areas, and I found some concrete buried in the soil during landscaping.Aside from these issues, the rest of the work was excellent.

Weng Loong Tai

5 months ago

Finally today i got my Granny flat keys.from beginning to today Sean ( site manager) was with me, sean is a fantastic, co operative, helpful person as well as i thanks all granny flat solutions member.RegardsK m maruf parves6 mclean road, campbelltown 2560

k.m maruf parves

a day ago

It has been a year since my family moved into our beautiful new granny flat .I would recommend Granny Flat solutions over any other company .From my first interaction with the site assessor, Johnny, I was impressed with his thorough assessment and communication to me about what needed to be done.However I still decided to go with another company as they promised to deliver earlier and I needed the place completed prior to to HSC trials for my daughter .Michael contacted me and came out to see me to discuss the situation and promised to deliver as soon as possible and by May as needed .My site is difficult to access due to being on a main road and Michael was able to problem solve and save me money at every point .Michael is nothing short of a superstar!All of the staff I had contact with were warm and professional.Pierre, the project manager was fantastic , Nicholas the architect and Jessica at material selection to name a few were all a pleasure to work with during a highly stressful time.On the phone to reception they are always kind and professional.They delivered on time as promised.I will always recommend them over anyone else and would use them again in the future .

Natasha Cosentino

a day ago

I am looking to build a granny flat for my Mum and I interviewed at least half a dozen builders and I have never had such good service in any industry let alone the building industry as I have received so far from Leanne at Granny Flat Solutions. I haven't even left deposit or anything yet and she's working so hard on helping me find the right block of land so I cannot recommend them highly enough and I have seen the quality of their building and I am very impressed

Rod Jones

3 days ago

Justin was incredibly helpful, approachable, and communicative. He ensured I was updated at every stage of the construction process, which provided me with peace of mind and confidence in the project's progress.What stood out most was Justin's flexibility and willingness to accommodate my schedule, even arranging inspections over the weekend to suit my availability. His cooperative nature and commitment to the project's timeline were instrumental in completing the construction on schedule.I truly appreciate Justin's dedication and professionalism throughout the project. His efforts made the entire experience smooth and stress-free. Thank you, Justin, for your outstanding work!

Ranjana Bharti

9 days ago

I've had a fantastic experience dealing with Granny Flat Solutions. They have been incredibly helpful and an invaluable resource. Every time I reached out, Leanne and the team were able to provide knowledgeable, responsive, and sound advice. They genuinely care about delivering the best outcome for the customer. I Highly recommend.

Daniel Grumley

14 days ago

We highly recommend Granny Flat Solutions. They were a pleasure to work with. Their process was highly streamlined, efficient and professional and they kept us informed of what to expect every step of the way. The people were also wonderful to work with, so knowledgeable and very helpful, which made the process effortless. We are extremely happy with the outcome of the granny flat - the workmanship is excellent, and GFS paid great attention to detail. We really can't recommend GFS enough.Socrates & Mary

15 days ago

Special thanks to Justin and the Granny Flat Solutions team on the efforts of our build.The finished project was first class - meeting expectations of quality, on budget and was on time.Granny Flat Solutions made the effort to explain and communicate what was happening during each stage to ensure we were making decisions suited to our needs.Overall a really great experience, and one that has provided a solid return of investment. Would go to them first for our next build.

Zachary Hanna

20 days ago

My experience with Granny Flat Solutions has been both friendly and professional. It was a great pleasure in dealing with Wally and Michael on our granny flat build in the past. Leanne has also been very friendly and helpful for our next build.

Jose V

21 days ago

It has been a pleasure to built with granny flat solutions. They finished the work before the contract date, no delays. I'm very happy with the quality of their work and fabulous management team. They reacted to problems very fast just need to communicate with them. No stress about the time and unresolved issues. If I build agin I'll choose them again. Very happy about my flat. We are enjoying it every day 😀. Just a tip if you want to design one for your own family to live ask for Neil the designer. He has great ideas and rich knowledge, so your won't wast too much time on designing. Justin is wonderful manager. It was a great experience to work with him. Christine, Brandon, the name goes on. I really their tiler and painter as well. They have a great team. 👍

Chao Burnett

22 days ago

Great Team and only to happy to rectify any after building problems or worries one might have and a pleasure to deal with them.

Steve Cruickshank

22 days ago

We just got our granny flat done in our backyard by Granny Flat Solutions, and wow, we are super happy with everything!Seriously, the whole project was so easy for me. I didn't need to do much worrying. Our project manager, Tony, he's great. He would just fix everything and update every detail even before I know ! Very smooth.When we first started, like for the design and beginning building, the designer and PM gave us really good ideas for the future. They all are very professional, thinking long-term for me not only on the project but also the use of land/property etc.Construction part was so quiet and safe. They really took care of our house and people living here. No big mess, no noise trouble, everything on schedule.Overall, our experience with Granny Flat Solutions was amazing. They work hard, they talk clear, and they want us happy.

Chichen Ling (Lenny)

24 days ago

Great experience with the team at Granny Flat Solutions. Thank you for the wonderful work you did in building my granny flat.

Nicole Rizk

a month ago

I'm thoroughly impressed with Granny Flat solution's work on our recent construction project. From start to finish, the team demonstrated exceptional efficiency and a commitment to quality. The final product exceeded our expectations in every way. Their attention to detail, professionalism, and ability to meet deadlines were outstanding. We couldn't be happier with the result and would highly recommend Granny Flat solution to anyone looking for reliable and skilled builders. Five stars isn't enough – we'd give them ten stars if we could!"

lidia pajmakoska

a month ago

Well we have our granny flat. It looks just like in a catalogue. No surprise there. If you want the job done you hire GRANNY FLAT SOLUTIONS. Now you know!!!Go and get one. Cheers 🍺

Radek Slaby

2 months ago

Granny Flat Solutions has provided an impeccable service, bringing our dreams to reality through their professional and reliable services. We highly recommend this amazing team!Our meeting with Michael, Wally and the team was excellent from start to finish. Their clear communication, seamless processes and transparency gave us the assurance that GFS was the way to go. Their showroom exudes modern style, cleanliness and welcoming natural lighting that contributed to my assurance.Sean, our project manager, is an excellent communicator, always providing us with clear updates and was always efficient with providing a solution. We were never in the dark about what to expect and he ensured the whole process ran smoothly.Jessica's eye for detail is incredible! She helped to answer all my questions and provided advice that allowed me to carefully consider every aesthetic of our granny flat. She was incredibly welcoming and extremely patient, such a joy to work with.Thank you to GFS for their fantastic work! The photos speak for themselves. We will definitely be using their services again when the opportunity arises.

Monique Saade

2 months ago

Granny flat solutions did an exceptional job on my project. From start to finish, their communication was clear and consistent, making the entire process seamless. The quality of their granny flats is top-notch, and I couldn’t be happier with the final result. Nicholas, the designer, was fantastic—he worked closely with me to create a design that perfectly matched my needs and vision. Sean, the project manager, did an outstanding job overseeing the build. He was always responsive, kept me informed at every stage, and coordinated the trades efficiently to ensure the project was completed as quickly as possible without compromising quality. Also, the customer service team was incredibly supportive, addressing any of my questions and concerns. A huge thanks to the entire team at Granny Flat Solutions for making this experience so smooth and delivering such a high-quality product!

Luke Mawad

3 months ago

initial experience- Our consultant was highly informative, honest and knowledgeable. Admin staff have been very helpful and kind. we look forward to having our granny built

Shirin Shakeri

3 months ago

Heide Torr

3 months ago

Nicole-Kathryn Varacalli

5 months ago

Weng Loong Tai

5 months ago

k.m maruf parves

a day ago

Natasha Cosentino

a day ago

Rod Jones

3 days ago

Granny Flat Site Requirement