5 Things to Never Assume About the 70m² Consent Exemption
- Nelson Baguio
- Jun 15
- 2 min read
The 2026 granny flat consent exemption is a genuine step forward for New Zealand families wanting to add a secondary dwelling without navigating the full consent process. But it's been widely misunderstood and some of those misunderstandings are expensive. Here's what you actually need to know.
1. It Doesn't Applies Everywhere
The exemption covers most of New Zealand, but it doesn't override local district plan rules. Certain zones parts of rural land, special character areas, some coastal zones have restrictions that sit above the building consent exemption. Your property's specific zoning determines what's actually permitted, and that's worth confirming with your council before you commit to anything.
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2. Consent-Free Doesn't Mean the Services Are Free of Oversight
A granny flat with full plumbing toilet, shower, kitchen sink still needs connection to an approved wastewater system, and that connection may require council approval or sign-off from a licensed professional. The building consent exemption relates to the structure itself. Plumbing, electrical, and drainage work still needs to be carried out by licensed tradespeople and may require separate permits. These aren't red tape they're what keeps the building safe and livable.
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3. Consent-Free Doesn't Mean Council-Free
Some people read "consent-free" as "invisible to council." It isn't. You're still required to comply with the Building Code, councils can still inspect and enforce compliance, and if work doesn't meet code you're still responsible for it. The exemption removes the application process not the standards the building has to meet.
4. Banks Won't Automatically Treat It Like a Consented Dwelling
A consent-exempt dwelling won't appear on your LIM the same way a consented build does, and it won't have the same paper trail lenders are used to seeing. This can affect how your property is valued and how a bank treats it as security. If you're planning to use your property's equity or refinance down the track, talk to your bank or mortgage adviser before you build not after.
5. It's Not Retroactive
The exemption applies to new builds constructed under the new rules. It doesn't legalise structures that were built without consent before the exemption existed. If there's an unconsented building on a property you own or are considering buying, it remains unconsented. The new rules don't change the status of anything already standing.
The exemption is a useful tool when it's used correctly. If you're unsure whether it applies to your property or your plans, a brief conversation with your council or a planning professional will save you significant time. We work with these rules regularly and are happy to point you in the right direction.
— Freedom Cabins NZ | Built the NZ Way, People-First | freedomcabinsnz.com
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