Do I need council approval to build a modular home?

Getting council approval for a modular home is usually a simple process. In saying that, in NSW especially, you will need to watch out for some quirks with individual councils. Also, if you’re considering using a modular home as a secondary dwelling, then this has another whole range of issues you need to consider.

So, to help demystify council approvals for modular homes, we’ve put together a list of the main things you need to do and consider before starting with your new build.

ARE MODULAR HOMES DIFFERENT FROM OTHER TYPES OF HOMES?

Below, we look into the main types of approvals across the two states.

COUNCIL APPROVALS IN QLD 

1. THE BUILDING APPROVAL 

Ok, so let us start with the most straightforward form of council approval – a building approval. If you are building on a residential block or acreage, this will be simple. The primary considerations at this stage are your council overlays. These refer to issues on the site that you may need to consider, like bushfire, cyclone, flood, heritage and landslip overlays. In most cases, these are very simple to overcome – you just need to make sure you're aware of them. 

2. THE PLUMBING APPROVAL 

The second part of the building approval process is your plumbing approval. A licensed plumbing designer will need to design and document the right sewerage treatment plant for your site and home. If you already have access to town sewer, then this part of the process is a bit simpler. The plumber will be able to draw a plan showing the connection from the house to the sewer point.

COUNCIL APPROVALS IN NSW

1. THE DEVELOPMENT APPROVAL 

This approval considers the big picture and how your new home will meet council overlays for floods, bushfires, landscapes, amenities and any other overlays that will affect the development.

2. THE SECTION 68 OR CONSTRUCTION CERTIFICATE 

The next part of the approval is the Section 68 or construction certificate. In most NSW councils you will be required to apply for a Section 68 – “Approval To Build A Manufactured Home” which considers the construction of the new home. A section 68 approval will analyse things like energy efficiency, footings, bracing and design.

3. THE PLUMBING APPROVAL 

This final approval, the plumbing approval, is very similar to the QLD plumbing approval with requirements for a drainage design and wastewater disposal layouts.

OTHER APPROVALS 

SITING

The siting of your home on your land can also trigger the need for additional approvals. Councils will have standard setbacks for every boundary of your property, and if you want to build within these setbacks, a further Development Approval may be required.

SECONDARY DWELLINGS 

Modular homes are a great option if you're looking at building a secondary dwelling and lots of our clients do this! For more information on how they compare to traditional builds check out or article on modular home cost.

Unfortunately though, every council has different requirements and stipulations as to what you can and can’t do with a secondary dwelling. The best way to find out if you can build a secondary dwelling is to call your local council and speak with a town planner to find out how you can achieve your proposed home.

ECOLOGICAL OVERLAYS 

Another tricky area is around environmental overlays. These overlays will dictate how much clearing you are allowed to do on your site. Environmental Consultants and Arborists may need to be consulted to ascertain what will work best for your block of land.

NOT SURE WHERE TO START? TALK TO WESTBUILT HOMES

If you think that building a new modular home might be the best option for you, and you’re interested in a more streamlined construction process, talk to the team at Westbuilt Homes.