Granny flat approvals in Western Australia are an important step for homeowners who might be considering an ancillary dwelling on their property. Recent reforms have introduced exemptions under the Residential Design Codes (R-Codes), but understanding council, building and local requirements is still critical. Whether you’re building a new granny flat, renovating an existing property or planning for long-term occupancy, understanding the rules, dimensions and approval process ensures a smooth project from start to finish.
Do Granny Flats Need Council Approval in WA?
The question of whether granny flats need council approval depends on multiple factors including size, location and design compliance. While recent R-Code reforms have simplified approvals for compliant dwellings up to 70m², there are still circumstances where council involvement is necessary. Understanding where it’s required can prevent delays, fines or the need for remedial works on a completed structure.
When council approval is required
Council (development) approval, also referred to as granny flat council approval, is required when the proposed dwelling doesn’t meet the deemed-to-comply provisions of the R-Codes or when local planning policies impose additional restrictions. Examples include:
- Proposed dwellings exceeding 70m² internal floor area
- Sites in heritage or environmentally sensitive areas
- Properties where the design would impact neighbouring properties in terms of privacy, overshadow or access
- Situations where local council policies override R-Code exemptions
Even when not required under R-Codes, some councils might request formal confirmation of compliance. Homeowners are advised to check local regulations before proceeding with any construction.
Situations where approval may not be needed
For most standard residential lots, granny flats under 70m² that meet setback, height and privacy requirements can proceed without any planning approval. These exemptions now apply to lots of any size, including smaller lots or strata properties, dramatically improving land versatility.
However, building approval is always required, even when council approval is exempt, to ensure compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC) and safety standards.
Council Approval vs Building Approval
It’s critical to differentiate between council approval for granny flat development and a building permit. Council approval focuses on land use, zoning and compliance with planning policies, making sure the proposed dwelling aligns with the character of the neighbourhood, respects other properties and complies with local planning schemes. Building approval, on the other hand, ensures the granny flat is structurally safe, meets energy efficiency standards and complies with the NCC, covering aspects like foundations, electrics, plumbing and fire safety.
Even for projects that are exempt from council approval, obtaining a granny flat permit for construction is mandatory. Not only does it maintain legal compliance, it protects the homeowners against potential liability and allows insurers to cover the property. Securing the correct permits in advance helps to avoid common issues like noncompliant construction, unsafe practices or future complications when selling or renting.
Granny Flat Rules You Need to Follow in WA
Granny flat rules govern all elements of their design, placement and use, helping homeowners balance flexibility with regulatory compliance. Awareness of these rules makes sure the dwelling respects local amenity, maintains neighbourly relations and maximises the usability and long-term value of your property.
State planning policies and local variations
While R-Codes provide the overarching framework for exemptions, each local council may impose additional conditions or variations.
These policies can affect design elements like the building height, facade treatments, setback flexibility and streetscape compatibility. Consulting both state and local requirements before beginning a project reduces the likelihood of costly revisions or misalignment with expectations.
Occupancy, use and rental considerations
Granny flats can be occupied by family members, friends or tenants. Councils generally don’t restrict use if the property remains compliant with zoning, but some areas may need separate metering for utilities, minimum parking provisions or limits on the number of occupants. Clarifying occupancy and rental intentions in advance prevents inadvertent breaches of planning regulations or utility requirements.
Setbacks, privacy and access requirements
Setbacks and privacy standards under R-Codes protect neighbours and maintain overall neighbourhood amenity. Minimum distances from boundaries, strategic window placements and visual privacy measures such as screening or fencing must all be considered.
Adequate access for residents, deliveries and emergency vehicles is also crucial, especially on smaller or irregularly shaped lots, to guarantee safety and long-term practicality.
Size and Dimensions of a Granny Flat in WA
Understanding granny flat dimensions is essential for both planning and construction, as meeting the correct regulatory standards ensures the dwelling is functional and compliant. Correct sizing helps maximise the space of internal layouts while respecting limits, boundary setbacks and amenities for neighbouring properties.
Maximum allowable size under WA regulations
For exemption from council approval, the maximum internal floor area of a granny flat is 70m². Designs exceeding this threshold may necessitate formal council assessment and approval. It’s important to note that this limit doesn’t include detached external features like carports, patios or storage sheds, which can usually be added separately while remaining compliant with setback and coverage rules.
How lot size affects granny flat dimensions
Recent R-Codes reforms have removed the minimum lot size requirement, allowing granny flats to be constructed on lots of any size provided they adhere to deemed-to-comply standards. Lot shape, slope, orientation and existing structures may influence the maximum practical size of the dwelling, but these factors don’t prevent exemption eligibility when all other standards are met.
Can I Build a Granny Flat on My Property?
Building a granny flat depends on zoning, site characteristics and the relationship to existing dwellings. Most residential zones permit ancillary dwellings, but careful assessment of your property is necessary to ensure compliance and avoid future planning challenges.
Minimum lot size and zoning requirements
Thanks to updated R-Codes, there is now no minimum lot size for compliant granny flats, allowing development on small lots, grouped dwellings and strata properties.
Confirming your local zoning and permitted land uses ensures your project is eligible for exemption and avoids unnecessary council delays.
Existing dwellings and site constraints
Granny flats must remain ancillary to an existing primary dwelling, whether detached or integrated. Existing site features, including other structures, paths, trees or sloped terrain might need design modifications to meet compliance, while also maximising liveable space and maintaining safety and accessibility.
Services, access and infrastructure considerations
Essential services such as water, sewerage, electricity and stormwater must be provided. Road access, vehicle parking and emergency access routes should be reviewed before any finalisation of design to avoid expensive redesigns and to ensure the dwelling functions effectively without compromising safety or compliance.
Granny Flat Permits and the Approval Process
Understanding the permits required and anticipated timeframes supports homeowners in planning construction efficiently and avoiding delays.
What permits are required before construction
- Building Permit: Mandatory for all constructions to ensure structural safety and compliance with the Building Code of Australia.
- Council Approval: Required if your granny flat exceeds R-Code exemptions (e.g., size, setback or plot ratio) or does not meet local planning compliance criteria. R-Code exemptions provide simplified rules for minor developments but larger or more complex structures typically need a full development application.
Additional permits may be required for environmental concerns, heritage overlays or infrastructure impacts, depending on the property’s location.
Typical approval timeframes in WA
- Building Permit: Usually processed within 10-25 business days, depending on design complexity and completeness of the application.
- Council Approval: Can vary significantly. Simple, compliant designs may be approved in 3-4 weeks, while developments requiring assessments, neighbour consultation or environmental reports may take 2-3 months or longer.
Planning delays are often caused by missing documentation, R-Code compliance issues or objections from neighbours.
What documentation councils usually need
Applications will typically require the following:
- Site plans showing property boundaries and proposed building location
- Floor plans and elevations
- Structural specifications and engineering certificates
- Statements of compliance with R-Codes and local planning policies
- Any additional reports (e.g., environmental, heritage, stormwater)
Submitting comprehensive documentation from the get-go reduces the back-and-forth with council staff, avoids ongoing revisions and minimises delays. It’s also recommended to check your local council’s specific checklist before submission.
How Granny Flats WA Can Help
Granny Flats WA supports homeowners through every stage of the granny flat development, from initial planning to council approval and construction, making the process simpler, faster and less stressful.
Managing council and approval requirements
Navigating WA’s planning and building permit requirements can be complex. Granny Flats WA:
- Assess whether your project qualifies for R-Code exemptions or requires full council approval.
- Prepares and lodges comprehensive applications to minimise back-and-forth with council staff.
- Coordinates with relevant authorities, including council planning and building departments, ensuring all approvals are obtained efficiently.
- Provides guidance on additional permits or reports that may be required, such as environmental, heritage or stormwater assessments.
Designing granny flats that meet WA regulations
Designing a compliant granny flat isn’t just about the minimum requirements; it’s about creating a functional, flowing space. Granny Flats WA:
- Ensures layouts adhere to dimensional, setback and privacy regulations under R-Codes.
- Optimises natural light, ventilation and privacy for both the main dwelling and granny flat.
- Incorporates practical design features tailored to your lifestyle, such as open-plan living, storage solutions and outdoor spaces.
- Provides detailed plans and specifications that satisfy council and building permit requirements, reducing the chances of rejection.
Reducing approval risks and delays
Approval delays can be costly and stressful. Granny Flats WA helps avoid common pitfalls by:
- Identifying potential compliance or site-specific issues early in the planning stage.
- Reviewing applications thoroughly to prevent missing documentation or errors.
- Leveraging extensive experience working with WA councils to anticipate challenges and streamline approvals.
- Offering proactive advice to homeowners on modifications or additional reports that may be required to secure faster approvals.