Local planning guides
Plan a small home or outdoor building with better information.
Start with the project checklist, costs and building type. Then use the local guides because planning rules, permit pathways and council contacts depend on the property.
Popular starting points
Research before you request quotes
Prefab and modular homes
Compare construction methods, state coverage and researched suppliers for small homes and secondary dwellings.
Explore guide and suppliers →Compare granny flat quotes
An eleven-part checklist for inclusions, site works, modular delivery and unresolved allowances.
Read guide →How to build a granny flat
An eight-step Australian checklist from intended use and site screening to quotes, approvals and handover.
Read guide →Granny flat costs
Understand complete project costs, major variables and what to compare in written quotes.
Read guide →Cabins, studios and outbuildings
Compare common product names, uses and the approval questions that matter.
Read guide →What is a granny flat?
Learn the formal terms used across Australia and how a dwelling differs from a studio or cabin.
Read guide →Local rules and contacts
Choose your city
Victoria
Melbourne
Council rules, permits and planning contacts across Melbourne’s 31 local government areas.
Open Melbourne guides →New South Wales
Sydney
A growing guide to Sydney councils, planning contacts and local development pathways.
Open Sydney guides →Queensland
Brisbane
Council guidance will be added as Brisbane coverage expands.
Open Brisbane guides →Why choose a city first? The relevant council, planning scheme, overlays and approval pathway can change from one local government area to the next. Always confirm site-specific requirements with the council and a qualified professional.