In some cases, yes, although the type of approval required depends on the property and the local Council planning scheme.
In Queensland, granny flats are formally referred to as secondary dwellings. Depending on the site and applicable planning rules, a secondary dwelling may:
- not require a planning application at all;
- require a code assessable application; or
- Although unlikely, require an impact assessable application.
Regardless of the planning pathway, building approval is required before construction can commence.
The pathway that applies to your block is rarely obvious from a general search. Two properties on the same street, with the same zoning, can sit in different overlays or have different lot sizes, and that alone can shift the project from accepted to code assessable. At A&E Professional Solutions, we assess each site against the local planning scheme so you know which pathway applies before they commit to a design or a builder.
What determines whether approval is required?
Each council in Queensland administers its own planning scheme, which outlines the rules for development within that local government area. While the details vary between Councils, the things typically assessed for secondary dwellings include:
- zoning of the property;
- setbacks to boundaries;
- distance from the primary dwelling;
- site cover;
- building height;
- floor area;
- access and parking; and
- overlays such as flood, bushfire, landslide, heritage or environmental constraints.
In some cases, a secondary dwelling can proceed without planning approval where the proposal complies with the relevant requirements. Where the proposal falls outside of those requirements, for example, due to floor area or setbacks, a development application may be triggered.
The thresholds for each of these factors differ from one Council to the next, which is why a site-specific check against the relevant planning scheme is the only reliable way to confirm what applies to your block.
What are the different approval pathways?
Accepted development
Some secondary dwellings may be categorised as accepted development under the relevant planning scheme. This means a development application to Council is not required, provided the proposal complies with all applicable requirements. Building approval still applies.
Code assessable development
This is the most common approval pathway where a proposal does not comply with accepted development requirements. A development application is lodged with Council and assessed against the relevant planning scheme codes. Code assessable applications do not require public notification.
Impact assessable development
This is a more detailed assessment process and includes public notification. Impact assessment is far less likely for a secondary dwelling, but it can occur depending on the site and proposal.
Why independent planning advice matters
One of the most common mistakes we see is clients investing in detailed plans before confirming the planning requirements applicable to the site.
A quick planning review early in the process can identify:
- whether a development application is required;
- design constraints;
- potential overlay issues; and
- whether adjustments could simplify the process.
It is generally much easier (and cheaper) to make these adjustments early, rather than redesign a project after plans have been finalised.
How A&E Professional Solutions can help
If you’re thinking about adding a secondary dwelling, the practical first step is a planning check before commissioning designs or plans.
As an independent town planning consultancy, our role is to assess how the planning scheme impacts your property and to give you a clear view of the approval pathway. We assist with secondary dwelling applications across Queensland, including:
- preliminary planning advice and site review;
- development applications;
- change applications for approved projects; and
- extension of time applications where required.
We also regularly work alongside building designers, builders, building certifiers and other consultants to help keep projects moving smoothly.
Common Questions
Can you build a secondary dwelling without any approval at all?
No. Even where a project meets the accepted development criteria and doesn’t need a development application, building approval and certification are still required.
Can you rent a granny flat to non-family members in Queensland?
In most Queensland councils, yes. Recent state-level changes aimed at supporting housing supply have broadened how secondary dwellings can be used, although these requirements are subject to change and can still vary between local government areas.
How long does approval take in QLD?
It depends on the level of assessment. Accepted development where compliant may only require building approval, while code assessable applications typically take two to four months from lodgement to decision. Impact assessable applications take longer because of the public notification period.
Ready to Talk About a Secondary Dwelling on Your Property?
If you’re considering a secondary dwelling (or granny flat) on your property, we can help you understand what planning requirements apply and what pathway is applicable.
A&E Professional Solutions is a Sunshine Coast-based town planning consultant working on residential projects throughout Queensland, with a particular focus on smaller-scale residential development.
[Contact A&E Professional Solutions] | [View Our Town Planning Services]
A&E Professional Solutions, your independent town planning consultancy on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland. Information in this blog is general in nature. Secondary dwelling requirements vary by council and change over time. Check the current rules with your local council or get in touch with us for advice specific to your block.