Questions & Answers

Can the second residence be attached to the existing house?

Yes, potentially. A secondary residence (granny flat) can be designed as an attached addition to the main dwelling, provided it still meets the requirements for a secondary residence and complies with all applicable planning, building and Crown lease requirements.

Reference: Territory Plan 2023 – Part E01 Residential Zone Policy –  Territory Plan 2023 | Notifiable instruments

Last reviewed: 14 September 2026 Information current as at: 16 September 2026

Short Answer

Yes, potentially. A secondary residence may be attached to the main dwelling, provided it meets the applicable planning, building and Crown lease requirements.

Detailed Explanation

The Territory Plan 2023 does not appear to prescribe that a secondary residence must be physically detached from the principal dwelling. Accordingly, an attached secondary residence may be possible where the proposal satisfies the applicable definition and assessment requirements for a secondary residence.

The proposal must also comply with other applicable planning and building requirements and any relevant conditions or restrictions contained in the Crown lease for the block.

Key Point

No minimum block size does not remove the need for planning assessment.

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