What you need to know about building a Consent-Free 70m2 granny flat in New Zealand
The Big News: Proposed Consent-Free Granny Flats
The New Zealand Government is currently working on a new exemption that would allow small standalone dwellings up to 70m² to be built without needing a building consent, provided certain conditions are met.
This change is part of broader Building System Reforms aimed at:
Increasing housing supply
Reducing costs and delays for small builds
Encouraging simpler, code-compliant construction
It’s a game-changer for families, developers, and landowners alike.
Key Points of the Proposed Exemption
While this is still in the proposal stage (expected to come into effect by 2026), here’s what the government is considering:
Up to 70m²: Standalone dwellings (aka granny flats, cabins, minor dwellings)
Simple design: Must meet Building Code requirements and be low-risk
Licensed builder involvement: Work must be done or supervised by a Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP)
Council notification: You’ll still need to notify your local council before and after the build
Still need to comply: Resource consents, zoning rules, and infrastructure charges may still apply
So, while building consents may no longer be required for eligible granny flats, it’s far from a free-for-all. Want to find out more in detail - click here
How Archzone Architects Can Help You Navigate This
At Archzone, we’ve helped many clients unlock the full potential of their land while staying compliant and future-proof. Here’s how we can help:
1. Preliminary Site Feasibility
We’ll assess your site and let you know what you can legally build, under both current and proposed rules.
2. Smart Design for the 70m² Exemption
We design beautiful, efficient, code-compliant small homes that:
Maximise liveability in 70m²
Fit harmoniously within your existing site and landscape
Meet future consent-free criteria (so you can build when it’s ready)
3. Planning + Resource Consent Guidance
We’ll help you understand your zoning, setbacks, coverage, and height restrictions, as well as manage resource consent applications if needed.
4. Coordination with Licensed Builders
We work closely with LBPs and prefabrication providers, so your project meets the exemption requirements and is built right the first time.
5. Future-Proofing
Even if the exemption isn’t in place yet, we can design now, and build later or help you secure the necessary consents under today’s rules if you're ready to go now.
Why Now Is the Time to Plan
While the 70m² exemption hasn’t landed yet, it’s coming soon—and the smart move is to start planning now.
By the time the exemption takes effect, you’ll already have:
A consent-free ready design
Your council notifications prepared
Your builder lined up
Peace of mind
Ready to Start Your Granny Flat Journey?
Whether you’re adding a home for family, creating rental income, or planning a future-ready retreat, Archzone Architects can help you design smarter and build better—with or without consent.
Based in Dunedin, we specialise in tailored solutions for residential clients across Otago and beyond.
Let’s talk. Book a consultation or drop us a message today to explore how your dream 70m² home can become reality—on your land, your terms.
