New Rules for Granny Flats & Small Homes Under 70sqm
New government rules are making it easier than ever to add minor dwellings and small homes under 70sqm to your property – but there are still important requirements to understand before you get started.
If you’re exploring homes for relocation, tiny homes, or granny flats, staying up-to-date with the latest 2026 changes is essential. These updates open up exciting opportunities for homeowners across New Zealand, particularly for those looking to create flexible living spaces or generate additional income.
At Uplifting Homes, we specialise in helping homeowners across the North Island bring their vision to life. From relocatable homes to fully self-contained minor dwellings, our focus is on delivering a simple, stress-free experience from start to finish.
2026 Rule Changes: Easier for Relocatable & Small Homes
As of 2026, the New Zealand Government has introduced a national consent exemption for qualifying minor dwellings. This change is a significant step toward making small-scale housing more accessible and affordable.
In many cases, homes under 70sqm no longer require building consent, provided they meet specific criteria. Resource consent may also not be required, and the rules generally allow for one minor dwelling per property. This means homeowners can now install minor dwellings for relocation faster and with fewer upfront costs than before.
What Qualifies Under the 70sqm Rule?
To meet the exemption criteria, a minor dwelling must be 70sqm or less, single-storey, and detached from the main house. It also needs to be fully self-contained, including a kitchen, bathroom, and living space, and must comply with the New Zealand Building Code.
This applies to a wide range of housing options, including tiny homes, granny flats, studio units, home units, and relocatable homes across New Zealand. These flexible living solutions are becoming increasingly popular for both personal and investment purposes.
Relocatable Homes: What You Need to Know
The updated rules are especially beneficial for homes for relocation, but they do not remove the need for proper compliance. A relocated dwelling must still meet Building Code requirements, be correctly installed on-site, and be supported by appropriate documentation.
If these standards are not met, your project may still require full consent, which can add both time and cost. While the process is now more streamlined, it’s important not to assume that “no consent” means “no rules.”
Important Requirements (Even Without Consent)
Although the new regulations are more flexible, there are still essential obligations to follow. All minor dwellings and small homes under 70sqm must meet Building Code standards, regardless of whether consent is required.
In addition, any restricted building work must be carried out or supervised by Licensed Building Practitioners (LBPs). Homeowners are also required to notify their local council both before and after installing a relocatable home or granny flat.
Site conditions remain a critical factor as well. Your property must comply with setback rules, allow for proper access, and have suitable water and wastewater services. In some cases – such as flood-prone or steep sites – consent may still be necessary.
Common Uses for Minor Dwellings
Across the North Island, there is growing demand for minor dwellings that serve a variety of purposes. Many homeowners are adding sleepouts for teenagers, creating rental-ready studio units, or downsizing into compact tiny homes.
Home units are also being used as second dwellings for extended family, offering a practical solution for multi-generational living without the need for major construction.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Despite the simplified rules, there are still common pitfalls that can cause delays or unexpected costs. One of the biggest mistakes is assuming that relocatable homes or minor dwellings don’t require compliance. Even without consent, regulations still apply.
Other issues include overlooking site-specific constraints or failing to engage qualified professionals early in the process. Skipping expert guidance can lead to complications with council requirements, installation, or documentation.
Taking the time to plan properly from the outset can make a significant difference in the success of your project.
Why Choose Uplifting Homes?
At Uplifting Homes, we bring extensive experience in relocating minor dwellings and granny flats, as well as handling more complex projects such as heritage homes and villas.
We work with homeowners across the North Island to provide and assist with homes for relocation, offering practical advice and reliable solutions tailored to each property. Our team supports you throughout the process, from assessing whether your project qualifies under the 70sqm exemption to guiding you through council notifications and documentation.
We also provide a range of relocatable home options to suit different needs, budgets, and site conditions.
The Bottom Line
The 2026 rule changes represent a major opportunity for New Zealand homeowners. With a faster process, more affordable granny flats and tiny homes, and greater flexibility in how properties are used, minor dwellings are becoming an increasingly attractive option.
However, success depends on getting the details right from the beginning. Understanding the rules, meeting compliance requirements, and working with experienced professionals will help ensure a smooth and successful outcome.
Let Us Help You Through the Process
Whether you’re planning to relocate an existing dwelling or add a new relocatable home to your property, Uplifting Homes can guide you every step of the way – from initial feasibility through to final sign-off.
Browse our site to get started or get in touch with the team today at hello@uplifting.co.nz