Guide to Building a Small Second Dwelling on Your Property

Recent updates to the Planning and Building Schemes have made it significantly easier to construct a Small Second Dwelling (SSD) of up to 60m2 on your property. Building a Small Second Dwelling (SSD) offers numerous advantages, such as additional living space or rental income, or affordable housing for family members.

What is a Small Second Dwelling?

A Small Second Dwelling is a self-contained building located on the same property as an existing home, with a gross floor area of 60 square metres or less. It must include the following essential features:

• A kitchen sink
• Food preparation facilities
• A bath or shower
• A toilet and wash basin

Key Characteristics of a Small Second Dwelling

• Floor area must be 60sqm or less
• Must be on the same lot as an existing home
• Must be only one Small Second Dwelling on a lot
• Must have a Kitchen, Bathroom and Toilet
• No car parking spaces required
• Anyone can live in it or rent it out
• Must not be subdivided from the main home
• Must not be connected to a reticulated natural gas supply
• Siting, Design and Rescode Building Regulations apply

Siting, Design, and Amenity Requirements for a Small Second Dwelling

Siting requirements play a vital role in maintaining liveable neighbourhoods by regulating how buildings and structures are positioned relative to their surroundings and the community. These requirements, outlined in Clause 54 of the Planning Scheme, typically address:

• Neighbourhood Character: Ensuring new developments align with the existing character of the area.
• Setbacks: Specifying minimum distances from the street, side, and rear boundaries.
• Building Height: Maintaining appropriate scale and minimising overshadowing or overlooking of neighbouring properties.
• Site Coverage: Controlling the percentage of the lot that can be occupied by buildings or structures to prevent overcrowding.
• Private Open Space: Providing adequate garden or outdoor areas accessible from a living room.
• Safety and Accessibility: Ensuring a clear and unobstructed pathway to the Small Second Dwelling for ease of access.

Siting requirements are essential for managing growth, ensuring safety, protecting the environment, and preserving the unique qualities that make a neighbourhood a desirable place to live.

How to Start Building Your Small Second Dwelling

1. Planning & Permits

In most residential areas, a Small Second Dwelling (SSD) that complies with the necessary criteria does not require a Planning Permit.

However, there are certain zones and overlays that still require a Planning Permit. For example, if your property is in a Green Wedge Zone, a Planning Permit will be needed. Overlays such as Bushfire Management, Inundation, Erosion, or Significant Landscape overlays may also trigger a Planning Permit.

A Building Permit is always necessary, no matter the zones and overlays.

At Premier Homes and Granny Flats, we can evaluate your property to determine whether a Planning Permit is required. Our expert Planning Specialists will manage the entire process for you, providing a smooth, efficient, and stress-free experience.

2. Choosing A Suitable Design

There are a range of Small Second Dwelling designs that are tailored to suit your needs. From compact home floorplans to more spacious units, it is important that you select the design that works best for you.

At Premier Homes, we offer an extensive range of Small Second Dwelling designs that are perfect for your next build. With unique plans, and the potential for adaptations of our popular Granny Flat designs, you can find your perfect SSD.

Build Your Small Second Dwelling with Premier Homes

If you’re looking to start building a Small Second Dwelling on your property, the team at Premier Homes can help. From assistance with choosing the right design for you to building the new unit on your property, we’re with you every step of the way.

Premier Homes and Granny Flats has been the market leader in the industry, specialising in Granny Flats for over 40 years. We are a step ahead with building in smaller spaces, including backyards, where residents are still living in the main house. Building Victoria-wide, we also cater for Rural properties and homeowners. Speak to us today about building a Small Second Dwelling on your property.

Get in contact with us today to find out how you can start the process of building a Small Second Dwelling on your property today.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

How does a Small Second Dwelling differ from a Dependent Person Unit?

In the past, we’ve constructed Dependent Person Units (DPUs) all across Victoria. These were moveable structures designed to house a ‘dependent’ person, commonly referred to as “Granny Flats” due to their frequent use by elderly family members. Because of their portability, DPUs had minimal siting or size restrictions.

In contrast, a Small Second Dwelling is a permanent structure that can accommodate anyone, including for rental purposes. As a permanent addition to the property, it must meet specific Siting, Design, and Amenity requirements.

The Victorian Planning Provisions Scheme has now replaced Dependent Person Units as a land-use term with Small Second Dwellings. A transition period is in place until March 28, 2025, allowing building permits for DPUs to still be obtained during this time.

What other factors or restrictions could impact development of my land?

Certain special circumstances may affect how land can be used or developed. For instance:

• Restrictive Covenants: These are legal agreements imposed by the developers that limit land use or development. For example, a single dwelling covenant on the Certificate of Title would prohibit the addition of a Small Second Dwelling, as it would breach the covenant.
• Section 173 Agreements: Under the Planning and Environment Act 1987, these agreements can impose conditions and restrictions on the use or development of land.
• Easements: If an easement exists on your property, it may limit how that section of the land can be used, as there are strict regulations governing building over easements.

To fully understand and navigate any potential restrictions, contact Premier Homes and Granny Flats for expert advice and assistance.

Does a Small Second Dwelling need to comply with the National Construction Code (NCC) 2022?

Yes, a Small Second Dwelling must comply with the National Construction Code (NCC) 2022. The NCC establishes minimum requirements for the design, construction, and performance of buildings in Australia, ensuring they are safe and sustainable for occupants.

Key features of NCC 2022 compliance include:

• 7-Star Energy Rating: Ensuring energy-efficient designs for reduced environmental impact.
• Accessibility Improvements: Incorporating features such as ramp access, 870mm-wide doors, 1200mm clearance around the WC, and zero-threshold showers for enhanced usability.

These requirements reflect the latest standards for building quality, safety, and sustainability.

Is Fencing and Car Parking required for a Small Second Dwelling?

Fencing between an existing house and a Small Second Dwelling is not mandatory. However, you may opt to install fencing to enhance privacy between the two buildings.

Similarly, there are no mandatory on-site car parking requirements for a Small Second Dwelling.

How is the 60m2 limit measured, and can you add a verandah?

The 60m2 limit is measured as the gross floor area, taken from the external walls and including everything under the roofline. If a verandah is included, it must be factored into the 60m2 calculation. However, deckings are not subject to size limitations and can be constructed without impacting the 60m2 restriction.