What is the 60 Square Metre Rule in NZ?
What is the changing rules for building 60m2 houses in NZ
In response to the housing crisis, New Zealand is likely to implement the 60 square metre rule in mid 2025, a significant policy change designed to facilitate the construction of smaller, self-contained homes, commonly referred to as granny flats or minor residential units (MRUs). This regulation aims to increase housing availability and affordability while providing homeowners with the flexibility to utilise their properties more effectively. These are new rules that apply to certain houses.
The 60 square metre rule allows homeowners to build additional dwellings on their properties without needing a building consent, provided these units do not exceed 60 square metres in size. This exemption is a notable shift in New Zealand’s housing policy, aiming to streamline the construction process and remove bureaucratic hurdles that have historically made building smaller homes more difficult.
Key Features of the 60 metre Rule
- Size Limitations: As the name suggests, the rule specifically pertains to dwellings that are 60 square metres or less. This size limit is designed to ensure that the units remain small, making them suitable for a range of uses, from accommodating extended family members to providing affordable rental options for young adults or individuals.
- Detached Structure: The units must be standalone, meaning they cannot be attached to the primary residence on the property. This requirement helps maintain the distinction between the main house and the additional dwelling, ensuring each unit retains its own identity and functionality.
- One Storey Only: To further ensure that these units remain modest in scale, the rule stipulates that the dwellings can only be constructed as single-storey buildings. This limitation aims to minimise the impact on surrounding properties and maintain the character of existing neighbourhoods.
- Compliance with Building Code: While the 60 square metre rule eliminates the need for building consent, all constructions must still comply with the Building Code. This ensures that the units are safe, healthy, and durable homes for occupants.
- Notification to Local Councils: Homeowners planning to construct a granny flat must notify their local councils of their intentions. While formal consents are not required, councils need to be informed of the construction, allowing them to monitor compliance with building regulations.
Benefits of the 60 Square Metre Rule
The introduction of the 60 square metre rule brings several advantages to homeowners and the broader community:
- Increased Housing Supply: By simplifying the process for building small, self-contained units, the rule encourages more homeowners to create additional dwellings, thereby increasing the overall supply of housing in New Zealand.
- Affordability: Smaller homes tend to be more affordable to build and maintain, making them an attractive option for those struggling with the high cost of living and housing in New Zealand.
- Flexibility for Homeowners: The rule provides homeowners with greater flexibility in how they utilise their properties. Whether accommodating family members, generating rental income, or creating a space for personal use, the 60 square metre rule opens up various possibilities.
- Addressing Housing Needs: The policy is designed to meet the needs of diverse demographics, from young families seeking affordable housing options to older generations wanting to downsize or live closer to relatives.
The 60 square metre rule represents a positive step towards addressing New Zealand’s housing challenges. By making it easier for homeowners to construct small, self-contained dwellings, the government is not only enhancing housing availability but also fostering more diverse and sustainable communities. See our page on whether you can build a granny flat next to your neighbour. This is a big bonus for elderly who want to stay living at home, as they can move into the smaller unit and have their family live in the larger house. As the country continues to grapple with the housing crisis, regulations like this provide a crucial tool for increasing the supply of affordable homes and creating more livable spaces for all New Zealanders. Homeowners considering building a granny flat or MRU should stay informed about the specific requirements and guidelines to ensure successful construction while contributing to a growing movement towards more accessible housing solutions. To see further retirement house designs check out this page.