General information only. Planning controls differ block by block and the rules were updated in 2025. Always check your property on VicPlan and confirm with your council or a registered building surveyor before you commit.
The rules in plain English
60 square metres or less
A small second dwelling is capped at 60 square metres of gross floor area, measured from the outside of the external walls and including all roofed areas. It must sit on the same lot as the existing home.
No planning permit in most cases
If your lot has no flooding, environmental, heritage or other special planning controls, a planning permit is generally not required. Note that Clause 54 changed on 8 September 2025 (Amendment VC282), and lots under 300 square metres in some residential zones can still need a permit.
A building permit is always required
Even when planning is exempt, you still need a building permit from a registered building surveyor. Siting, design and amenity are assessed through the building permit process.
It must be self-contained
The dwelling needs its own kitchen sink and food-preparation facilities, a bath or shower, and a toilet and wash basin. That is what makes it a dwelling rather than an extension.
All-electric, no natural gas
A small second dwelling must not be connected to reticulated natural gas. It is designed to be all-electric, in line with Victoria's gas-connection policy for new dwellings.
Cannot be subdivided or sold off
The second dwelling stays part of the main property. You cannot subdivide the block or sell the granny flat separately from the main home.
How to add one, step by step
1. Check your title and planning controls
Look up your property on VicPlan to see your zone, lot size and any overlays (flooding, heritage, environmental, bushfire). These decide whether you fall under the no-permit pathway or still need a planning permit.
2. Confirm the design fits the rules
Keep the gross floor area to 60 square metres or less and make sure it is self-contained with a kitchen, bathroom and toilet. Design it all-electric from the start.
3. Engage a registered building surveyor
Apply for your building permit through a registered building surveyor. They assess siting, setbacks, amenity and compliance, and carry out inspections during construction.
4. Sort servicing early
Plan power, water, sewer or septic and stormwater. All-electric appliances need adequate supply, and connecting services is often the part people underestimate.
5. Build with a VBA-registered builder
Use a registered Victorian builder. Domestic Building Insurance applies once the work is over the threshold, and a registered builder keeps your statutory warranties intact.
Official sources
Victorian Planning (small second dwellings)
Official guidance on the small second dwelling planning pathway and exemptions.
Victorian Building Authority (VBA)
Small second homes building requirements and finding a registered building surveyor.
Granny flat questions
In most cases no. If your lot has no flooding, environmental, heritage or other special planning controls, a small second dwelling of 60 square metres or less generally does not need a planning permit. But Clause 54 changed on 8 September 2025, and smaller lots in some residential zones can still require one, so always check your property on VicPlan first.
Related: find a granny flat builder in Melbourne, read your building contract rights, and explore building across Melbourne.
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