Granny Flat Design & Permit Process (Up to 60m²)

Step 1 – Site Survey

A licensed land surveyor undertakes a feature and level survey of the property. This survey identifies:

• Property boundaries and offsets
• Existing buildings and structures
• Ground levels and contours
• Trees and significant site features
• Easements and underground services (where applicable)

The survey forms the basis of all architectural designs and building permit documentation.

Step 2 – Preliminary Site Assessments

Depending on the property, zoning overlays, and council requirements, specialized reports may be required, including:

• Arborist Report (if protected trees exist on site or nearby)
• Soil Test & Geotechnical Investigation
• Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) Assessment
• Flood or Overland Flow Assessment
• Asset Protection or Easement Build-Over investigations

Note: These reports are assessed on a case-by-case basis depending on council overlays.

Step 3 – Concept Design (Draft Plans)

Using the site survey and your requirements, preliminary architectural drawings are prepared for review.

These draft plans typically include:

• Proposed Site Plan
• Floor Plan layout
• External Elevations
• Preliminary Dimensions and setbacks

Step 4 – Client Review & Design Revisions

The draft plans are reviewed together with the homeowner.

Any requested changes to layout, window placements, or room dimensions are incorporated until approved.

Step 5 – Final Working Drawings

Once approved, detailed architectural construction drawings are finalized for Building Permit application.

• Final Dimensioned Site Plan
• Internal Layout & Floor Plans
• Detailed Elevations and Cross-Sections
• Window and Door Schedules
• Energy Rating Report (6 to 7-Star Energy Assessment)

Step 6 – Engineering Documentation

A qualified structural engineer designs the structural framework, including:

• Concrete footing or slab design
• Subfloor framing / stump layout (if elevated)
• Structural wall framing and lintel sizes
• Roof truss or framing computations

Step 7 – Building Surveyor Appointment

A Registered Building Surveyor is formally appointed to evaluate all documents against the National Construction Code (NCC) and Victorian Building Regulations.

Step 8 – Builder Selection

Before a Building Permit can be granted, the construction method must be decided:

Step 9 – Building Permit Issued

With all drawings, engineering details, insurance, and surveyor approvals complete, the formal Building Permit is issued. Physical construction can now begin!