The Current Rules around 60m2 Granny Flats

With the 60m2 granny flat rules set for change later this year or early next year, we want to make it clear what the current rules are, how they may change and how it will affect you.

This blog explains the current rules. Our next posts will explore how the rules may change.

Understanding the Current Rules for Granny Flats in New Zealand

Granny flats, or minor dwellings, have become increasingly popular in New Zealand, offering homeowners an ideal solution for extra living space. Goodwood's range of self-contained cabins, such as the 7.2m x 2.8m self-contained cabin, provides a great example of how these units can be adapted to various needs—whether for your family, guests, or rental income.

Current Rules for Granny Flats

Regulations surrounding granny flats vary from council to council, but there are some common themes:

1. Size Restrictions: Most councils limit the size of granny flats to around 65–80 square meters. Units like Goodwood’s 9.6m x 2.8m self-contained cabin fit within these restrictions, making them ideal for a variety of uses without requiring too much red tape.

2. Consent Requirements: Building consent is almost always required, especially for units with plumbing and electrical setups. In some cases, resource consent might also be needed, depending on your location.

3. Land Size: Many councils enforce minimum land size requirements to avoid overcrowding & to keep with the theme of the area. It's important to check local regulations to ensure your property qualifies before making any investment. For example, in rural zones, your minimum lot size may be 5Ha to keep with the surrounding areas, however a minimum lot size in town is usually around 500m2 - That's 100 times smaller! This keeps the town a town, and the farm a farm. 

4. Infrastructure Contributions: Homeowners often need to pay additional fees for infrastructure, especially if the flat adds to the demand for local services like water and sewage.

5. Usage Rules: Some councils restrict granny flats to family use only or place limits on whether they can be rented out separately from the main dwelling. It’s crucial to understand these rules to avoid potential legal issues.

Goodwood’s self-contained cabins, including our 7.2m x 2.8m and 9.6m x 2.8m models, offer a flexible solution to comply with these regulations while maximizing your space. Explore how these units can fit your property’s needs by visiting our website.