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Building a second dwelling, cottage or granny flat in the Waimakariri District
Adding a second dwelling to your property can offer significant benefits. While the initial investment may seem substantial, the value it brings can quickly outweigh the costs. Whether it’s creating much-needed extra space for family or generating income through a holiday rental or long-term tenancy, a second dwelling is a smart and versatile choice.
If you’re considering building a cottage or granny flat on your property in the Waimakariri District, it’s important to be aware of the District Plan provisions set by the Waimakariri District Council. These guidelines outline what’s required to ensure your project complies with local regulations.
What the Waimakariri District Council’s District Plan allows
The District Plan permits a secondary dwelling that is physically separated from the main house, provided it is located within 30m of the primary residence. This is measured from the nearest living area of the main dwelling to the nearest living area of the secondary dwelling.
The secondary dwelling must not exceed 75m² of gross floor area. The gross floor area is the inside area of the exterior walls. It also includes the floor area of a second storey but it does
not include a garage or veranda, so long as it is not used for any residential purposes i.e. a laundry.
Connecting your granny flat to reticulated services
There is no guarantee that you will be able to connect your new space into reticulated services until we’ve been able to look into it. If you live rurally, that also includes septic tanks. It all really depends on location, depth and condition of existing services.
Does adding a granny flat change my rates in the Waimakariri District?
Yes it does! As per the Waimakariri District Council website, adding a second dwelling to your property will likely result in higher rates. Rates are based on the property’s capital value, so any new improvements, including a second dwelling, will increase both the property value and the rates.
If the dwelling is connected to Council services, such as the water supply, additional rates will apply. Rates for recreation services will also be charged on the second dwelling.
However, if the second dwelling is occupied by a member of the ratepayer’s household and is not rented out or made available for rent, some additional rates may not apply. To qualify, you’ll need to complete an annual occupancy declaration.
