This exemption can only be used for building work started after the issue of the required PIM from the 15 January 2026.

The granny flats building consent exemption allows small standalone dwellings up to 70 square metres in size to be built without a building consent if:

• it has a simple design and meets the Building Code
• homeowners notify their local council before they commence building and once it is completed
• the work is carried out or supervised by licensed building professionals
• all other exemption conditions are met.

Please refer to the guidance available at Granny flats exemption: Guidance and resources that explains the conditions for using the exemption and what qualifies as a granny flat.

It also includes practical checklists, templates, and links to resources to explain the exemption conditions and how to comply with them.

Homeowners are legally responsible for ensuring that building work fully complies with the conditions of the granny flats exemption and meets the requirements of the Building Code. If any of the exemption conditions are not met, the building work is not considered exempt, and a building consent will be required. Homeowners must apply for a project information memorandum (PIM) before they start the work.

Homeowners also need to ensure that the granny flats building consent exemption meets certain permitted activity standards and criteria under the Resource Management Act 1991, the National Environmental Standards for Detached Minor Residential Units (NES-DMRU)