Granny Flats Just Got Easier: What the New Consent-Free Rules Mean for You

BIG NEWS! The Government has passed legislation that will allow simple granny flats (think small standalone dwellings up to70 m²) to be built without the usual building consent. Yup - you read that right. (But yes, there are some conditions.)

It’s one of the biggest housing rule changes in years, designed to make it easier (and faster) for Kiwis to add small, simple homes to their properties - whether that’s an extra space for whānau, a home office, or a rental to help with the mortgage. The exemption is expected to take effect in early 2026 - so while you can start planning now, if you begin building before the exemption is live, you’ll still need the normal consent.

‍

So, what’s actually changing?

Right now, most new builds no matter how small need a full building consent, which can add months of paperwork and extra costs.

Under the new rules, you’ll still need to:

• Ensure the dwelling is “simple in design” up to 70 m², meets the New Zealand Building Code and is built by authorised building professionals.
• Notify your local council before building, and again once the build is complete.

It’s not quite “build whatever you like” — but it’s a huge step toward cutting red tape for small, low-risk homes.

‍

Why this matters

This update could open the door for thousands of homeowners who’ve been sitting on an idea but put it in the “too hard basket.”

It means:

• Families can bring loved ones closer without the stress of long approval times.
• Landowners can create rental units more affordably.
• Communities can add much-needed housing options.

• Farmers can easily house staff on-site, without the usual building consent process.

And for many, it’s a way to make better use of their land -without the mountain of paperwork that used to come with it.

Things to watch / caveats

• If your desired build is more complex (multi-level, major site remediation, unusual materials) you’ll likely still need consent.
• The build must comply with the Building Code and still needs to be done by qualified/authorised building professionals. Not a free-for-all.
• Even though building consents are not required under this exemption,  notification to the council is required. Councils may still apply development contributions for infrastructure if they issue a Project Information Memorandum (PIM).
• Timing matters: If you start building before the new rules are live, the  old rules apply.
• While  this simplifies one barrier (building consent), other steps (eg site preparation, utilities, design, foundations) still remain and should not be underestimated.

Where Modern Building Solutions fits in

At Modern Building Solutions, this change feels like a natural fit - because it’s exactly what we already do.

We specialise in architecturally designed, fully code-compliant transportable homes and small dwellings - including several models that fit the new 70 m² limit.

Here’s how we can help make the most of this new opportunity:

• Ready-to-go  designs: We’ve got a range of plans ready to go - from self-contained  one-bedders to two or three bedroom homes - all built to NZ Building Code     standards.
• No-stress process: We handle everything from feasibility checks and council notifications through to transport and delivery, so you can focus on the exciting parts.
• Future-ready  builds: Even though the new rules aren’t live until early 2026, planning now means you can hit the ground running once they are.
• Quality  you can trust: Every home we build is made right here in New Zealand, by experienced professionals who take pride in doing things properly - so you’ll still meet every standard the new exemption requires.

Ready to explore your options?

Whether you call it a granny flat, minor dwelling, or a backyard home - this change could make your plans a reality sooner than you think.

If you’ve got a section and a dream, our team can help you figure out what’s possible. We’ll check your site, talk through designs that fit the new rules, and make sure everything is lined up so you’re ready to build when the exemption goes live.

Curious about how this could work for you?
Get in touch with the team at Modern Building Solutions for a friendly chat -no pressure, no sales pitch, just clear advice on what’s possible for your property. Just call 0800 66 33 76 or email enquiries@modernbuild.co.nz

Because at the end of the day, we’re here to help Kiwis unlock their freedom - one smart, simple build at a time.

‍

Source: Granny flats get the consent-free go ahead | Beehive.govt.nz