Project GuidesGranny Flat Rules SA 2026 — Approval Guide for South Australia
South Australia granny flat approval guide for 2026 — covering the increased 70m² limit, self-contained dwellings now permitted, open rental market, and PlanSA requirements.
Overview
South Australia has recently modernised its granny flat rules, officially called ancillary accommodation. Key changes include allowing self-contained dwellings with their own kitchen and bathroom, increasing the maximum size to 70m², and permitting rental to non-family members.
These changes are part of SA's broader housing affordability strategy.
Approval Pathways
Development Approval
In South Australia, ancillary dwellings require a development permit (development approval). Unlike NSW's CDC or VIC's permit-free pathway, SA uses a unified assessment framework through PlanSA.
Building Permit — Always Required
A separate building permit is mandatory to ensure compliance with the National Construction Code and safety standards.
Key Requirements
Size Limits
| Requirement | Value |
|---|---|
| Maximum floor area | 70m² (increased from 60m²) |
| Self-contained allowed | Yes (kitchen, bathroom, laundry) |
Lot Requirements
| Requirement | Value |
|---|---|
| Minimum property size (complying) | 600m² |
| Cannot be subdivided | Correct |
| Must share services with primary dwelling | Yes (electricity, water, sewer) |
Parking
| Requirement | Value |
|---|---|
| Additional parking bay | Not required in most cases |
Rental Rules
Owners can now rent to non-family members without restrictions — a significant recent change that opens ancillary accommodation to the broader rental market.
Zoning
Projects must comply with the specific rules for the property's zone. Check requirements through PlanSA or your local council.
Upcoming Changes
Future Living Code Amendment (Part 1)
Adopted on April 26, 2025, this introduces new policies including a new land use definition and amendments related to co-located housing in established residential zones.
NCC 2025 Transition
South Australia has announced a 10-year moratorium on certain NCC provisions:
- Minimum energy efficiency remains at 7-star equivalent for existing homes
- Livable housing design remains at silver level for existing homes
- New provisions for energy efficiency and livable housing apply to new building work on existing homes from May 1, 2026
Compliance Checklist
- Property is ≥ 600m²
- Dwelling is ≤ 70m²
- Property zoning supports ancillary accommodation
- Development approval obtained through PlanSA
- Building permit obtained
- NCC compliance confirmed
- Connected to same services as primary dwelling
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I rent my granny flat to non-family members in SA?
Yes. Recent changes allow ancillary accommodation to be rented to anyone.
What's the maximum size for a granny flat in SA?
70m² — recently increased from the previous 60m² limit.
Can a granny flat have its own kitchen?
Yes. SA now permits self-contained ancillary dwellings with their own kitchen, bathroom, and laundry.
Do I need council approval?
Yes. Development approval is required through PlanSA and your local council.
Official Sources
This guide is for planning purposes only. Always confirm requirements with PlanSA and your local council. Last reviewed March 2026.