Gold Coast Granny Flat Rules

Granny flats are becoming an increasingly popular housing option on the Gold Coast. Whether you're looking to create a space for family, generate rental income, or maximise your property's value, understanding the rules and regulations is key. Here’s a simple breakdown of what you need to know about building a granny flat under the Gold Coast City Plan.

What Exactly Is a Granny Flat?

A granny flat, also known as a secondary dwelling, is a smaller residence located on the same lot as a primary home. It’s designed to be self-contained, typically including a kitchen, bathroom, and living area. But on the Gold Coast, these dwellings must be subordinate in size and function to the primary house.

Key Features of Granny Flats:

• Smaller than the main house: The maximum gross floor area is 80 square metres.

• Located close to the main dwelling: Proximity requirements vary depending on zoning but generally range between 3 and 20 metres.

• Shared access: Granny flats must use the same driveway and vehicle crossover as the main home.

Rules to Keep in Mind

The Gold Coast City Council has specific rules to ensure granny flats integrate seamlessly into neighborhoods and meet safety and privacy standards. Here are the highlights:

1. Location Requirements

Granny flats must be either:

• Attached to the main home;

• Within 10 meters of the main dwelling in most urban zones; or

• Within 20 meters in rural or rural residential zones.

2. Privacy Matters

If the granny flat has windows or balconies overlooking neighbouring properties, privacy screens must be installed with at least 50% transparency.

3. Matching Design

The secondary dwelling must blend with the primary house by using similar materials and design elements. From the street, the two should appear as one cohesive property.

4. Shared Access

Both the primary and secondary dwellings must share the same driveway. This helps maintain a unified appearance and reduces unnecessary disruptions to the surrounding streetscape.

Common Questions About Granny Flats on the Gold Coast

Can I rent out my granny flat?

Yes, you can! Granny flats can be rented to tenants, making them an excellent way to supplement your income. However, ensure the dwelling complies with all council regulations before leasing it.

Do I need council approval?

In most cases, yes. A material change of use application is typically required unless your development meets all requirements for accepted development. It’s always best to check with the council or your builder for specifics.

Are there restrictions on who can live in a granny flat?

Unlike some councils, the Gold Coast doesn’t restrict occupancy to family members. This means you have the flexibility to use your granny flat for extended family, guests, or tenants.

Ready to Build Your Granny Flat?

Building a granny flat on the Gold Coast doesn’t have to be complicated. At Compact Kits, we specialise in designing and supplying high-quality, space-efficient granny flats that comply with council regulations. From initial concepts to the final build, we’re here to help every step of the way.

Contact us today to explore our range of modern and stylish granny flat designs, and let’s turn your property dreams into reality!