Can a garage be converted into the second residence?
Yes, potentially. An existing garage may be converted into a secondary residence (granny flat) if the proposed conversion meets the applicable planning and building requirements.
A garage is generally a non-habitable Class 10a building, so it cannot simply be used as a dwelling without ensuring it meets the requirements for residential occupation. Building work and approval may be required for matters such as structure, fire safety, insulation, ventilation, natural light, waterproofing and other residential building standards.
The completed secondary residence must also meet the applicable ACT planning requirements, including the maximum dwelling size of 90 m², excluding the garage.
Reference: Territory Plan 2023 – Part E01 Residential Zone Policy – Territory Plan 2023 | Notifiable instruments
Short Answer
Yes, potentially. A garage may be converted into a secondary residence if the conversion meets the applicable planning and residential building requirements. As a garage is generally a Class 10a non-habitable building, approval and building upgrades may be required before it can be used as a dwelling.
Detailed Explanation
Yes, potentially. An existing garage may be converted to form a secondary residence where the resulting development complies with the applicable Territory Plan and building requirements.
A garage is generally classified as a Class 10a non-habitable building under the National Construction Code. Conversion for residential occupation therefore requires the resulting building or part of the building to satisfy the applicable requirements for a dwelling, including any necessary change in building classification and associated construction requirements.
The development must also satisfy the secondary residence requirements under the Residential Zones Policy, including the maximum dwelling size of 90 m², excluding any garage. Development Approval and/or Building Approval may be required depending on the existing approvals and proposed works.
No minimum block size does not remove the need for planning assessment.
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