Project GuidesGranny Flat Rules WA 2026 — Approval Guide for Western Australia
Western Australia granny flat approval guide for 2026 — covering the Apr 2024 planning exemption for ancillary dwellings ≤70m², no minimum lot size, and deemed-to-comply provisions.
Overview
Western Australia introduced significant granny flat reforms in April 2024, making it one of the most permissive states for ancillary dwellings. Compliant granny flats up to 70m² no longer require council planning approval. The minimum lot size requirement was removed entirely.
These changes were implemented through amendments to State Planning Policy 7.3 and the Residential Design Codes (R-Codes) Volume 1.
Approval Pathways
Deemed-to-Comply — No Planning Approval Required
Since April 2024, granny flats that meet "deemed-to-comply" provisions of the R-Codes do not require council planning approval.
You can skip planning approval if:
- The ancillary dwelling is ≤ 70m² internal floor area
- It meets R-Code requirements for setbacks, height, site cover, and privacy
- The property is not in a heritage, bushfire, or environmentally sensitive area
Building Permit — Always Required
A building permit is still mandatory to ensure compliance with the National Construction Code and safety standards.
Full Planning Approval
Planning approval is still needed if:
- The dwelling exceeds 70m²
- It doesn't meet deemed-to-comply R-Code provisions
- The property is heritage-listed or in a bushfire/environmental sensitivity zone
Key Requirements
Size Limits
| Requirement | Value |
|---|---|
| Maximum internal floor area (exempt) | 70m² |
| Proposals exceeding 70m² | Require formal council assessment |
Lot Requirements
| Requirement | Value |
|---|---|
| Minimum lot size | No minimum (removed Apr 2024) |
| Previous requirement | Was 350m² |
| Permitted on strata/grouped lots | Yes |
Parking
| Requirement | Value |
|---|---|
| Additional car parking bay | Not required in most residential areas |
| Exceptions | May apply in high-density zones or limited public transport areas |
Design Requirements
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Design compatibility with main dwelling | Relaxed — no longer strictly required |
| Setbacks | Must comply with R-Codes |
| Height | Must comply with R-Codes |
| Site cover | Must comply with R-Codes |
| Visual privacy | Must comply with R-Codes |
Rental Rules
Owners can rent to anyone — no family-member restrictions.
What Changed in April 2024
| Before (Pre-April 2024) | After (April 2024+) |
|---|---|
| Minimum 350m² lot size | No minimum lot size |
| Planning approval often needed | Exempt if ≤70m² and compliant |
| Design must match main dwelling | Design compatibility relaxed |
| Car parking bay required | Not required in most areas |
| Family-member restrictions | Anyone can rent |
Compliance Checklist
- Ancillary dwelling is ≤ 70m²
- Meets R-Code deemed-to-comply provisions (setbacks, height, site cover, privacy)
- Not in heritage, bushfire, or environmental sensitivity zone
- Building permit application prepared
- NCC compliance confirmed
- Access requirements met
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need council approval for a granny flat in WA?
Not if it's ≤ 70m² and meets R-Code deemed-to-comply provisions. A building permit is still required.
Is there a minimum lot size for a granny flat in WA?
No. The previous 350m² minimum was removed in April 2024.
Can I build a granny flat on my strata lot?
Yes. The 2024 reforms allow ancillary dwellings on grouped and strata lots.
Can I rent out my granny flat to a stranger?
Yes. There are no restrictions on who can live in an ancillary dwelling in WA.
Official Sources
This guide is for planning purposes only. Always confirm requirements with your local council. Last reviewed March 2026.