How Close Can a Granny Flat Be to the Boundary in NSW?

Building a granny flat in New South Wales can be a great way to add value to your home or accommodate extended family.

But before you get too far into design, you need to know how close your secondary dwelling can be to the boundary.

As a town planner NSW clients regularly turn to for advice, I’ve seen many projects delayed due to overlooked setbacks or non-compliant boundary placements.

Setback Rules Under NSW Planning Controls

In most cases, the minimum setback from a side or rear boundary for a granny flat is 0.9 metres. This applies under the NSW planning codes for complying development, which is a fast-tracked approval path.

However, these distances change depending on factors like the height of the structure, lot size, bushfire zoning and whether the site is in a heritage area. For example, anything taller than 3.8 metres usually requires increased setbacks.

When lodging a development application, your setback must also meet your local council’s DCP requirements.

Working with a town planner near me specialising in NSW DCP can help avoid missteps during the DA approval process.

Why Getting the Boundary Right Matters

We recently worked with a homeowner in Campbelltown who placed their proposed granny flat 600mm from the rear fence.

It seemed minor, but it triggered a full redesign. Our planning consultant team stepped in, adjusted the layout to meet the 0.9m rear setback, and included a full statement of environmental effects for NSW DA to support their revised council submission for secondary dwelling NSW.

Without that planning input, the client risked a rejected planning permit NSW or an order to demolish post-construction.

These setbacks are more than just guidelines. They form part of the building regulations NSW uses to ensure fire safety, privacy and liveability.

Town Planning Services for Residential Development NSW

A qualified NSW town planning consultant for subdivision approval or residential development can check the exact boundary rules for your LGA. These vary widely across councils.

In heritage zones, you may need a heritage impact statement NSW town planning teams prepare before any work begins.

We often help homeowners balance heritage preservation with liveable design by working closely with council.

If your proposal doesn’t meet the standard setbacks, a Clause 4.6 variation request may be possible.

We’ve provided expert help with Clause 4.6 variation request NSW clients need for unique site constraints.

Council Approval and Practical Design Advice

Whether you’re applying through the development application pathway or complying development, getting planning advice early can save you time and money.

We also assist with planning advice for dual occupancy NSW clients who want two dwellings on one block.

These often trigger stricter setback and separation distances under local NSW planning codes.

Knowing how to get a DA approved in NSW starts with understanding your site boundaries. Engaging a town planner NSW experienced in setback compliance can make or break your application.