Granny Flats Building Consent Exemption Now in Effect

What It Means for Homeowners and How to Get It Right

From 15 January 2026, a major change to New Zealand building legislation has come into effect. Small standalone dwellings commonly known as granny flats can now be built without a building consent, provided specific conditions are met.

This is a positive step for homeowners looking to add flexible accommodation for family members, generate rental income, or future proof their property. However, the exemption does not remove the need for good design, professional documentation, or compliance with the Building Code and planning rules.

At Minimal Design, we have extensive experience designing granny flats, minor dwellings, sleepouts and compact standalone homes across New Zealand. We are fully set up to help clients navigate this new process efficiently, professionally, and with confidence.

What qualifies for the building consent exemption

A new granny flat can be built without a building consent if all of the following conditions are met.

• It is a single storey, standalone dwelling

• The total floor area does not exceed 70 square metres

• The design is simple and fully compliant with the Building Code

• All exemption criteria in the legislation are satisfied

• All restricted building work is carried out or supervised by Licensed Building Practitioners

Even though a building consent may not be required, the build is still regulated and must meet the same technical standards as any other dwelling.

Project Information Memorandum is still required

Before construction starts, homeowners must obtain a Project Information Memorandum from their local council. This confirms site specific requirements such as services, hazards, planning overlays and other relevant constraints.

Once the build is completed, the council must be notified and provided with key documentation, including final plans, Records of Work and certificates of compliance from relevant trades.

This means the quality and accuracy of your documentation still matters a lot.

The critical role of Licensed Building Practitioners

Under the exemption, Licensed Building Practitioners carry significant responsibility. LBPs must ensure the work complies with the Building Code and must complete and lodge Certificates of Work and Records of Work with the council.

Clear coordination between designer, builder and trades is essential. Poor or incomplete documentation increases risk for everyone involved and often leads to stress, delays and unexpected costs during construction.

How good design and documentation saves time and money

One common misconception is that no building consent means no need for proper plans. In reality, the opposite is true.

• Well prepared drawings with the right level of detail help to

• Reduce design changes during construction

• Improve cost estimation and budgeting accuracy

• Allow builders to price works confidently

• Streamline ordering of materials

• Improve construction sequencing and scheduling

• Avoid compliance issues at completion

Good documentation removes uncertainty. It protects both the homeowner and the professionals involved.

Our approach at Minimal Design

We have been designing small dwellings and granny flats long before this exemption came into force. Our team understands how to balance simplicity with compliance, cost efficiency with good design, and speed with quality.

• We prepare professional architectural plans that

• Meet the exemption criteria and Building Code requirements

• Contain the right amount of information without unnecessary complexity

• Support smooth construction and pricing

• Are suitable for council PIM applications and final records

Importantly, because of our streamlined workflows and experience, we can typically deliver these projects in weeks rather than months, getting you ready for building sooner and with far less stress.

Resource consent and National Environmental Standards

The building consent exemption operates alongside planning rules. From 15 January 2026, the National Environmental Standards for Detached Minor Residential Units also apply. These standards may allow a minor residential unit to be built without resource consent if all permitted activity criteria are met.

Each site is different, and both planning and building requirements must be checked carefully. We assist clients with early feasibility advice to ensure there are no surprises later.

Thinking about a granny flat

If you are considering a granny flat, sleepout, or small standalone dwelling, now is a great time to explore your options. The new exemption simplifies the process, but professional input is still key to doing it right.

If you would like advice on feasibility, costs, timelines, or next steps, feel free to get in touch with our team. We are happy to help you move from idea to construction smoothly and efficiently.

Minimal Design

Wanaka and New Zealand wide