Granny flat rules in South Australia (2026)
Approval needed, but a fast-track path exists
Yes. Ancillary accommodation of up to 70 m² is allowed on the same allotment as your house. Planning and building approval are always required, but a streamlined deemed-to-satisfy pathway applies where the design meets the Code.
Key rules at a glance
| Maximum floor area | 70 m² (raised from 60 m² in Nov 2024) |
| Bedrooms | Commonly capped at 2 (check your zone) |
| Minimum site area | Varies by zone |
| Approval type | Development approval (deemed-to-satisfy path available) |
| Can it be rented? | Yes - to anyone |
| Self-contained | Allowed (own kitchen, bathroom, laundry) |
Conditions & eligibility
- Development and building approval are always required.
- Maximum floor area is 70 m².
- Can be self-contained with its own kitchen, bathroom and laundry.
- Can be rented to anyone; conditions preventing leasing are not allowed.
- Must be on the same allotment as the main dwelling.
Heritage, flood and bushfire controls on your specific lot can remove the fast-track and require a full application, even when the general rules say you're fine.
How approval works in South Australia
Lodge for development approval through the PlanSA portal. Where the design meets the Planning and Design Code, it is assessed on the faster deemed-to-satisfy pathway; a building consent is also required.
Councils apply the zone and overlay policies in the Planning and Design Code, which can affect siting, size and whether the deemed-to-satisfy pathway is available.
Planning rules across South Australia: every route to approval, and the answer for other projects →
Granny Flats rules by council in South Australia
Local councils apply the South Australia framework and can add their own controls. Pick your council:
Frequently asked questions
How big can an ancillary dwelling be in South Australia?
Up to 70 m², increased from 60 m² by a November 2024 change to the Planning and Design Code.
Can I rent out a granny flat in South Australia?
Yes. Occupancy restrictions were removed in 2023 to 2024, and ancillary accommodation can now be leased or rented to anyone.
Do I need approval for an ancillary dwelling in SA?
Yes, both planning and building approval are always required, but a streamlined deemed-to-satisfy pathway is available where the design meets the Code.
Sources
- Unpacking rules for ancillary accommodation - PlanSA ↗
- Ancillary accommodation, caravans and moveable housing FAQ - PlanSA ↗
Related building rules
This is general guidance, not professional planning advice. Figures are summarised from the sources above and can change — confirm with your council or the PlanSA before starting work. Last reviewed: July 2026.
Talk to a town planner in South Australia
This page covers the general rules. A qualified town planner can tell you what applies to your block, including the zone, overlays and approval path, before you spend money on drawings.
- Qualified, practising town planners
- Advice specific to your property
- Free, with no obligation