Granny flats exemption
The New Zealand Government is introducing changes for small self-contained, stand-alone dwellings (granny flats), allowing granny flats that meet specific criteria to be built without a building consent.
From 15 January 2026 a homeowner can apply for an exemption project information memorandum (PIM).
Guidance and resources
The granny flats building consent exemption allows small standalone dwellings up to 70 square metres in size to be built without a building consent if:
- it has a simple design and meets the Building Code.
- homeowners notify their local council before they commence building and once it is completed.
- the work is carried out or supervised by licensed building professionals.
- all exemption conditions are met.
The MBIE guidance explains the conditions for using the exemption and what qualifies as a granny flat. It sets out the steps to follow at each stage of the build and outlines the roles and responsibilities of homeowners, licensed building professionals, and councils.
It also includes practical checklists, templates, and links to resources to explain the exemption conditions and how to comply with them.
For more information, refer to Granny flats exemption: Guidance and resources | Building Performance
National Environmental Standards for Detached Minor Residential Units 2025
You also need to ensure that your proposal meets the permitted activity standards and criteria under the Resource Management Act 1991, the National Environmental Standards for Detached Minor Residential Units (NES-DMRU).
For more information, refer to National Environmental Standards for Detached Minor Residential Units 2025 | Ministry for the Environment
Other authorisations and approvals
Before starting work, confirm whether additional approvals are needed. These requirements sit outside the Building Act and must be met separately.
Additional approvals may be required for:
- network utility connections – approval from water, wastewater, stormwater, electricity or gas providers.
- vehicle crossings – permission for new or altered access to the road or kerb.
- land use restrictions – such as easements, covenants, or consent notices that affect where and how you build.
Check the timeframes for obtaining these approvals and any associated fees or costs. Contact the relevant providers early to understand what applies to your site and project.
Application – Exemption PIM
You will be required to submit a Form 2AA – Application for an Exemption Project Information Memorandum for non-consented small standalone dwelling, along with the required supporting documentation as per the MBIE guidance.
The following documentation will be required to be submitted with your application.
- Completed Granny flats exemption: Building design conditions checklist
- Preliminary design plans, including:
- Site plan
- Elevations
- Sections
- Floorplan
- Product and CodeMark Certificates
- Proof of Ownership (must be current – issued within the previous three months):
- Record of Title – this can be downloaded from Land Information New Zealand (LINZ). Alternatively, we can upload one on your behalf for a fee.
- Easement Instruments and Consent Notices – these are noted on the Record of Title.
Applications can be submitted via the Simpli portal.
Application fees
Refer to Building Control on the Fees and charges page.
