Can I Build A Secondary Dwelling Or Granny Flat

Secondary dwellings, commonly referred to as “Granny Flats” are becoming an increasingly popular option for homeowners across The Sunshine Coast, Noosa & Gympie Regions. Secondary dwellings present an opportunity to maximise the value and utility of your property. 

Whether you’re wanting to create additional space for family members, generate a rental return, increase the overall value of your property or set up an AirBnB; Secondary dwellings offer a versatile and practical solution.

But “Can I build a Granny Flat” and “What are the rules”?

Can I build one?

Generally speaking, yes. For most properties, a Secondary Dwelling is considered Accepted Development. Whilst you must still seek Building & Plumbing Approval via a Registered Certifier, if you can comply with the relevant Council’s conditions, setbacks and overlays, no additional Town Planning Approvals are required. 

But be aware, every Council has a different set of rules for how and where you can build on your property. Fortunately, The Shed House has their own Certifier and can help you navigate all of the above Council requirements. 

Now Let’s take a look at the rules!

Like we said, every Council has a unique set of rules governing Secondary Dwellings. Your Overlays, Setbacks, Dwelling Size, Parking Requirements & Locations are all governed slightly different based on your Council Region. Within The Shed House service area, the biggest difference is the maximum Gross Floor Area (GFA) and distance requirements from the primary dwelling. 

The Maximum GFA is for internal areas only. This does not include decks or garages/carports.

Sunshine Coast
Maximum GFA :  60m2 (Residential Zoning)  90m2 (Rural Zoning)
Distance From Primary Dwelling: No more than 20m from the Primary Dwelling

Download the Sunshine Coast Secondary Dwelling Fact Sheet HERE

Noosa
Maximum GFA :  65m2 (All Zones)
Distance From Primary Dwelling: No minimum or maximum distance limitation

Download the Noosa Secondary Dwelling Fact Sheet HERE

Gympie
Maximum GFA :  70m2 (All Zones)
Distance From Primary Dwelling: No more than 20m from the Primary Dwelling

Download the Gympie Secondary Dwelling Fact Sheet HERE

How close to the boundary can I build?

This is where things get a little complicated. Each council again has different boundary setback requirements, which themselves vary based on the property zoning and sometimes overall size.