Minor dwellings are becoming more popular with New Zealanders, appealing to homeowners for their compact design and earning potential. Ranging from 30 to 70 sqm, these small homes can be added to your section as a secondary dwelling, to maximise functionality of your land.
This blog explores the sizes of minor dwellings, their various uses and the regulatory considerations that come with them.
What is a minor dwelling?
In New Zealand, a minor dwelling is a smaller secondary residential unit on a property with a primary dwelling. These units are typically between 30 – 70 sqm and can serve various purposes such as housing family members, generating rental income or accommodating guests.
Minor dwellings are subject to specific local regulations and building codes to ensure compliance with zoning and safety standards. Regulations may vary between regions, so it’s essential to check with local authorities for specific guidelines.
What are minor dwellings typically used for?
- Guest Accommodation: Providing a comfortable and private space for guests or visiting family members. An ideal solution for hosting friends or relatives without intruding on the main residence.
- Rental Income: Generating additional income by renting out the minor dwelling as a separate unit. A cost-effective way to utilise available space on the property.
- Home Office or Studio: Creating a dedicated workspace away from the main house, for productivity and work-life balance. Ideal for freelancers, entrepreneurs or artists who require a quiet and focused environment.
- Aging Parents Accommodation: Providing a suitable living arrangement for aging family members while maintaining independence. Allows for close proximity and support while ensuring privacy.
- Short-Term Accommodation: Utilising the space for short-term rentals, appealing to tourists or business travellers. Can serve as a source of additional income, particularly in tourist-heavy areas.
- Recreational Retreat: Creating a retreat, bach or holiday home for personal use. Offers a getaway without the need for extensive maintenance or space.
What sizes are considered a minor dwelling?
Minor dwellings are typically 30 – 70 square metres, and this can vary by Council. The different requirements will depend on the zoning of the area where the site is located. Some examples in the North Island are:
- Auckland – 65m2. In Auckland a minor dwelling must be under 65m2, including the laundry. This excludes garaging, so it is possible to have one or more garage bays attached to a minor dwelling. Reference link here.
- Hamilton – 60m2. In Hamilton, the maximum floor area for a minor dwelling is 60m². Reference link here.
- Tauranga – 60m2. In Tauranga, a minor dwelling can have a 60m2 footprint, plus an attached or detached garage or carport not exceeding 18m2 (for the purpose of vehicle storage, general storage and laundry facilities). Reference link here.
- Thames/Coromandel – 50m2. In the Thames/Coromandel area a minor dwelling means a separate building with a floor area (excluding a garage) no greater than 50m2, that is accessory to a dwelling on the same site. The minor dwelling can be up to 60m2 if certified as functional for elderly or disabled residents. Reference link here.
- Waipa – 70m2. In the Waipa District, minor dwellings can be up to 70m2 floor area, excluding decking and garage. Reference link here.
- Hauraki – 50m2. In the Hauraki District, a minor dwelling can by up to 50m2. Reference link here.
When does a minor dwelling require building consent?
Several factors may trigger the need for a building consent:
- Floor size
- Building height
- Proximity to section boundaries or other homes
- Presence of cooking and toilet facilities
It’s important to contact your local council to determine if your minor dwelling requires building consent. Comprehensive contact details for local councils throughout the country can be found here.