Journeys/Melbourne Journey

Granny Flat / Dependent Person's Unit in Melbourne

Melbourne granny flats sit under Victoria's Dependent Person's Unit (DPU) and Secondary Dwelling regulations - more restrictive than SA's 2023 rules. Every granny flat needs a planning permit, must fit Rescode setbacks, and often requires a family relationship for the fast-track pathway. Here is the honest process.

Typical cost

$180K - $420K

1-2 bed granny flat, prepared site, includes services

Typical timeline

8 - 14 months

design to move-in

Find my Melbourne builder Granny flat builders Melbourne

Melbourne granny flat behind a family home

What this means in practice

Blocks over 500m² without Heritage Overlay

Get matched with the right builder for your build

A 3-minute questionnaire on budget, block type and build style. We shortlist Adelaide partner builders that fit, and hand you a comparison table. No pushy calls, no commitment.

Match me with builders Or speak to a human

Under 3 minutes. 8 quick questions, no email required to see results.
Ranked shortlist. Match score, price band, and where each builder actually builds.
Independent. Editorial layer over paid ranking. Builders can't buy their way to the top.

This journey suits you if

Blocks over 500m² without Heritage Overlay
Multi-generational families
Owners needing aging-parent solution or teen wing

What goes wrong most

Heritage overlays block DPUs entirely in some inner suburbs
Rescode site coverage / garden area limits fit on small blocks
Separate services connection ($15k-$40k)

How it actually unfolds

The steps that move the needle. We sit beside you on each one.

1
Overlay + Rescode check on VicPlan
Confirm block is over 500m², not Heritage Overlay, and Rescode setbacks + garden area allow a DPU footprint.
2
Choose DPU or Secondary Dwelling classification
DPU = dependent family only, faster permit. Secondary Dwelling = rentable, slower + stricter permit. Pick early - re-classification later needs a new permit.
3
Design + planning permit application
Melbourne DPU planning permit typically 6-14 weeks. Heritage overlay or Yarra/Stonnington/Bayside councils: 3-6 months.
4
Building permit + services connection
Separate power meter, water tie-in, sewer connection. Standard piered footings on Melbourne reactive clay adds $8k-$18k.
5
Construction + Occupancy Permit
5-9 months on-site typically. Detached DPU faster than an integrated addition.