Do You Need Council Consent for Your Sleepout?

Adding a sleepout to your property is a great way to gain some additional living space or create a cozy retreat or hobby room. However, at GardenHouse24, we often hear how local council regulations can be confusing. 

Here are some guidelines to make it easier for you to install a quality wooden garden room on your property. It includes a quick overview of when you might need local council consent for your sleepout project in New Zealand.

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Do You Need Council Consent for Your Sleepout?

 

When Consent for Your Sleepout Likely Isn’t Required

The good news is that many sleepouts in New Zealand can be built without council consent. Generally, you won’t need consent if your sleepout meets these criteria:

 

  • Size: The sleepout is a single-storey detached building with a maximum floor area of 30 square metres and doesn’t exceed 3.5 metres in height.

  • Plumbing: The sleepout doesn’t have any plumbing or facilities for the storage of drinking water.

  • Cooking: It doesn’t contain cooking facilities.

  • Distance from boundaries: The sleepout is at least its own height away from your property boundary.

When Consent for Your Sleepout Might Be Needed

Even if your sleepout meets the above criteria, there are some scenarios where council consent might still be needed. Here are some additional considerations:

  • Height restrictions: Check your local council’s height limitations for buildings.

  • Urban vs. rural zoning: Regulations can differ between urban and rural areas.

  • Total number of buildings: The total number of structures on your property, including sheds and garages, may affect consent requirements.

  • Purpose of the sleepout: Consent might be needed if you plan to use the sleepout for something other than sleeping.

Always Check with Your Local Council

While this guide provides a general overview, building regulations can vary between councils. To be sure about the requirements for your specific project, we always recommend that you contact your local council’s planning department. They can give you definitive guidance to make sure your sleepout meets all the necessary regulations.

Government Building Consent Resource

For in-depth information on building consents for sleepouts, you can visit the official New Zealand government web page: Can I Build It? Sleepout

Enquire now

Our products are available for delivery across New Zealand. With over 75 years of expertise manufacturing wooden tiny homes, we offer a comprehensive and customer-focused service. Call us today!

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