Granny Flat
Granny flats are the perfect way to create a home office or additional living space while generating rental income. They are also a great option for elderly family members looking to downsize and stay in the community they love. However, before you start construction, it is important to understand the regulations and permitting process. Understanding what permits are required can help ensure your project is a success from the outset.
Whether you’re looking to build a new home office, a backyard shed or a small self-contained apartment, there are many things you need to consider before beginning your Granny Flats project. First, you’ll want to check with your local council and state government to determine what the requirements are for building in your area. Depending on your situation, you may need a planning permit or a building permit. Having a permit is critical to avoid fines and possible demolition of your structure. In addition, your house insurance may be void if there are any illegal structures on your property.
The first step to obtaining a permit is to submit a planning application. You can do this through your local council’s ePermit center. You’ll need to provide your property address, lot size and a detailed plan of your proposed granny flat. If you are not sure which type of application you need, the ePermit Center can assist you.
What Permits Are Required to Build a Granny Flat?
A permit is a requirement for any structure that requires a building licence, including granny flats. The planning permit will need to include a detailed floor plan and all the necessary drawings for the structure. It will also need to include any supplementary information the council may require such as fire certificates, water certificates, structural engineering reports and drainage plans.
Once you have submitted your application, the council will review it and issue a building permit. This can take up to six months. Then you’ll be able to begin your project. Before beginning, it is best to hire an experienced team of builders and designers to ensure the project is completed correctly and efficiently.
In response to the housing shortage, California recently passed a law making it easier for homeowners to build granny flats on their properties. The law gets rid of the most common roadblocks to granny flat construction and replaces them with reasonable state requirements.
A granny flat, also known as an ADU (accessory dwelling unit), is a second residential dwelling unit on the same site as a single-family home or multifamily residence. They can be a standalone dwelling or built above an existing garage. They must be a separate structure that is legally permitted in your residential zone. For more information, visit the ADU Universal Checklist.
A granny flat can be custom-designed or prefabricated and can be constructed on site or at a factory. The choice of which method to use will significantly impact your timeline, but each has its advantages. For example, offsite construction allows for quicker completion of your ADU, and reduces the need to disrupt your yard during construction. Onsite construction, on the other hand, offers more customization but can be more vulnerable to delays due to weather or materials.
