The Ins and Outs of Council Approvals for Tiny Homes

Brisbane to Bundaberg

Tiny homes are increasingly popular, but when they’re fixed to the ground (that is, not on wheels) they’re treated like any other permanent dwelling under Queensland’s planning and building rules. This means you’ll generally need building approvals, plumbing approvals and, depending on the site and zoning, planning or development approval from your council.

We offer the most efficient and stress-free path to the final Certificate of Occupancy for your new tiny home.

Zoning and Development Approval

Councils assess proposals against their local planning schemes. If your block’s zoning allows a dwelling (or a secondary dwelling), you may be able to place a tiny home with only building approvals. If the site zoning doesn’t allow an extra dwelling, or if your tiny home changes the use of the land, you’ll likely need a material change of use (development) application. Rules differ between Brisbane, Moreton Bay, Sunshine Coast, Gympie, Fraser Coast and Bundaberg Council Areas.

We do the plans and applications for you. Easy.

Building approvals and the National Construction Code (NCC)

If the tiny home is fixed, the Queensland Building Act and the National Construction Code apply. The structure must meet Class 1 dwelling standards, including structural, fire safety, energy efficiency requirements, and accessibility requirements. Manufactured or modular units are assessed under these rules under QBCC and state guidance.

We plan for engineering and certifier involvement early to reduce waiting times and get it done right the first time.

Plumbing, services and wastewater

Even tiny dwellings must connect to safe water, sewer or accredited on-site wastewater systems, and meet plumbing and drainage standards. Councils normally require separate plumbing approvals and may ask for evidence that the site can support the required services. If your property is remote or off-grid, wastewater, water supply and power are additional considerations.

We collect and assess necessary site reports and individual requirements at the start, so there are no hiccups.

You can have a squiz at some of our completed work here.

We ensure services are connected legally, safely, and according to council regulations.

When we install your tiny home, we also:

• Confirm your block’s zoning and permitted uses.

• Obtain building approval, and ensure NCC/Class 1 compliance.

• Lodge services approvals and confirm connections.

• Liaise with and produce engineering reports, site reports, and any required documentation

  
  

Practical requirements (setbacks, site constraints, bushfire overlays, infrastructure charges, and environmental allowances) vary across councils between Brisbane and Bundaberg. We make sure the council approvals for your tiny home are done properly so you can take another thing off your plate.

Call us on 0477 406 449 to find out more, or email sales@mbbrokers.com