Can I Build a Granny Flat on My Property in NSW?

Many property owners ask, “Can I build a granny flat on my block?” 

The answer depends on several factors, including your lot size, zoning, and access.

Under NSW planning laws, a granny flat, also called a secondary dwelling, is allowed in many residential zones, but council approval or a CDC may still be needed.

As a town planner NSW based, I often review sites where clients assume a granny flat is allowed, only to find restrictions buried in local planning controls.

Getting the right planning advice early can save you from costly surprises later.

Check Zoning, Lot Size and Access

Most councils in NSW allow a secondary dwelling on residential land, but your property must meet the minimum requirements.

Generally, the lot needs to be at least 450 square metres, and the main house must remain the primary use.

We recently helped a client in the Central Coast area who owned a 600-square-metre corner block.

The land was zoned R2, and with the right setbacks and access, we were able to lodge a successful council submission for secondary dwelling NSW standards.

In that case, council approval was required through a development application, as the site had a minor slope impacting storm water drainage.

DA or CDC? Know the Difference

Some granny flats can be approved under a Complying Development Certificate (CDC) if strict criteria are met.

Others will need a full development application.

We handled a project in western Sydney where a family wanted to build a granny flat behind their main home for elderly parents.

The property met all CDC standards, and the private certifier issued the certificate in just a few weeks.

But for another client in a heritage conservation area, a development application was required, along with a heritage impact statement NSW town planning compliant and a statement of environmental effects for NSW DA.

Each site is different, which is why a planning consultant should always assess the feasibility first.

Understand Building Regulations NSW and Design Impacts

Even once planning controls are met, the design must comply with building regulations NSW enforces.

This includes fire separation, minimum ceiling heights and private open space.

For sloping sites or irregular blocks, we often need to prepare expert help with Clause 4.6 variation request NSW submissions where standards such as height or floor space can’t be met.

Our in-house drafting team works closely with builders and certifiers to ensure compliance, especially where clients are also considering dual occupancy or future subdivision.

Planning Advice Makes All the Difference

Getting clear planning advice early helps avoid rejection or redesigns.

A town planner near me specialising in NSW DCP requirements can identify local controls, driveway access issues or overshadowing risks before you submit anything to council.

We regularly provide town planning services for residential development NSW wide, and whether you’re building for rental income or family, knowing how to get a DA approved in NSW starts with proper preparation.

If you’re unsure whether a granny flat is possible on your block, a NSW town planning consultant for subdivision approval or residential development can guide you step by step.