Big News for Small Builds: What the New Granny Flat Rule Could Mean for You

There’s a big shift coming for homeowners, renovators, and anyone dreaming of a little more space. From early 2026, new rules are expected to come into effect that will let you build a small standalone dwelling — up to 70m² — without needing a full building consent.

That’s a pretty major change. It means you’ll be able to build faster, with less paperwork, and open up more possibilities for how you use your property.

Here at Scott Ede Design, we’re already looking ahead and thinking about what this means for future builds, renovations, and smart little spaces that work hard.

So, What Could You Build?

Even though the term “granny flat” is being used, this rule opens the door to much more than that. It’s a great opportunity to add a space that genuinely adds value to how you live.

We’re talking home offices, creative studios, teenage retreats, guest accommodation, or even a short-term rental. If you’ve been dreaming of more space but didn’t want the full stress of a traditional build, this could be your chance.

It’s a practical, future-focused solution that can adapt as your lifestyle changes — and with property flexibility becoming more important than ever, it’s a smart way to future-proof your home.

How the New Rule Works

The new building consent exemption will allow you to build a small standalone home — up to 70 square metres — without going through the full building consent process. But it’s not a total free-for-all.

There are still some important requirements:

• The design must be simple and meet the Building Code

• The work must be carried out or supervised by licensed building professionals

• You’ll need to notify your local council before you start and once the build is complete

The goal is to reduce red tape while still keeping quality and safety front and centre.

 Smart Design Makes All the Difference

Smaller spaces can be harder working — but only if the design is thoughtful. That’s where we come in.

At Scott Ede Design, we love crafting spaces that make the most of every square metre. Whether it’s a compact layout that flows well, built-in storage, or a smart connection to the outdoors, there’s an art to making a small home feel big.

We’ll also guide you in choosing long-lasting, low-maintenance materials that look good and perform well, keeping things simple and sustainable.

Let’s Talk About What’s Possible

This rule change isn’t just about saving time and paperwork — it’s about unlocking new options for everyday homeowners. Whether you’re planning to create a quiet spot to work, an extra place for guests, or just want to explore what’s possible on your section, we’re here to help.

Got an idea already? Let’s chat about how we can bring it to life. Big changes are coming — and sometimes, the smartest builds come in small packages.

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