On 30 January 2024, the West Australian State Government announced relaxed amendments to Residential Design Codes (R-Codes) aimed at boosting housing supply through removing the minimum lot size requirements for an ancillary dwelling commonly known as a granny flat.
To find out more about what these changes mean for you, keep reading below.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about New Granny Flat Regulations in Perth
Q: Do I still need council approval to build a granny flat in Perth?
A: As per the latest reforms announced, homeowners in Western Australia will no longer require planning approval to build a granny flat provided it is up to 70 square meters in size and meets setback requirements. This change is designed to ease the process and assist with the housing crisis in the state.
Q: What size can the granny flat be without needing planning approval?
A: You can build a compliant granny flat up to 70 square meters without needing planning approval.
Q: Why have these changes been made to granny flat regulations?
A: The state government has introduced these changes to tackle the acute housing crisis by increasing the supply of housing and cutting unnecessary red tape. This should make it easier and quicker for homeowners to contribute to housing solutions.
Q: How does this affect the time it takes to build a granny flat?
A: By removing the need for planning approval, the time it takes to get started on building a granny flat should be significantly reduced, allowing for faster construction and availability of additional living space.
Q: Can I rent out the granny flat to non-family members?
A: Homeowners in Perth have been allowed to rent granny flats to non-family members. It is advisable to verify current regulations with your local council.
Q: Will the removal of planning approval for granny flats affect the quality of construction?
A: The removal of planning approval is aimed at reducing administrative hurdles, not construction standards. All construction will still need to comply with the Building Code of Australia and obtain the necessary building permits, ensuring that quality and safety standards are maintained.
Q: Where can I get more information about building a granny flat under the new regulations?
A: For the most up-to-date and detailed information regarding building a granny flat, it is best to contact your local council or visit the Western Australian Planning Commission’s website. You can also view the WA Government’s info sheet here.
If you’d like to discuss more, please give us a call on (08) 6117 5719 or email info@foxgrannyflats.com.au.