What changed On 15 January 2026
From 15 January 2026, a new national exemption can allow certain new, single-storey, standalone dwellings up to 70m² to be built without a building consent — as long as strict conditions are met.
Quick “Do You Qualify?” Checklist
Use this as an early filter before you spend money on design or prefab quotes:
Standalone (separate dwelling — not an extension)
Single-storey
Up to 70m²
Simple design + Building Code compliant
At least 2m from boundaries and other buildings (confirm via PIM / local rules).
Built / supervised by the right licensed professionals
You follow the council steps: PIM + notifications + completion documentation
If one or more of those isn’t met, you can often still build a granny flat — it may just need the standard building consent pathway.
Related: Prefab vs on-site in Waikato — what changes (and what doesn’t).
“No Building Consent” Doesn’t Mean “No Council Process”
This exemption is nationwide — the core rule set is the same across New Zealand.
Even under the exemption, you generally still need to:
Apply for a PIM before starting
Notify council before work begins
Provide required completion documentation once finished
What varies locally is planning overlays, hazards, site constraints, and council admin details.
Hamilton Vs Waipā: What To Know
Below are local examples from Hamilton and Waipā — your council may use slightly different wording, but the national exemption is the same.
Hamilton City Council outlines the process for small standalone dwellings. Development contributions may apply and are assessed by your local council.
Waipā District Council notes a PIM is not an approval, councils do not inspect/sign off exempt builds, and the exemption doesn’t apply to sleepouts, garages, tiny houses on wheels, or conversions of existing structures.
Next Step: We’ll Confirm The Best Pathway For Your Site
If you’re planning a granny flat in Hamilton, Waipā or the wider Waikato (or you’re outside the region and can provide good site info), send us your address and a few site photos. We’ll confirm whether the 70m² exemption is likely to suit your property, and what the next steps look like.
Send us your address + photos and we’ll confirm the best pathway.
