Granny Flat Plans in Victoria: Costs, Rules & Approval Guide (2026)

Granny flats, officially called Dependent Persons Units (DPUs) in Victoria, are one of the most popular residential projects we draft at Arya Designs. Whether you are building one for ageing parents, adult children, or rental income, understanding the rules before you start is essential.

This guide covers everything you need to know about granny flat plans in Victoria for 2026.

What Is a Granny Flat in Victoria?

In Victoria, a granny flat is formally known as a Dependent Persons Unit (DPU). Unlike other states where granny flats can be built as independent dwellings, Victorian planning rules have specific requirements around who can live in a DPU and how it relates to the main dwelling.

A DPU is a self-contained unit on the same lot as an existing home, intended for a person who is dependent on the resident of the main dwelling. This typically means an elderly parent, a person with a disability, or someone who needs day-to-day support.

Victorian Rules for Granny Flats

Size Limits

There is no fixed size limit for a DPU in the Victorian Planning Provisions, but most councils expect them to remain modest in scale, typically between 40 and 60 square metres. Anything significantly larger may trigger additional scrutiny.

Occupancy Restrictions

The key restriction in Victoria is the dependency requirement. The occupant of the DPU must be dependent on a person who lives in the main dwelling. This is the biggest difference between Victoria and states like New South Wales, where granny flats can be rented to anyone.

Planning Permit Requirements

Most DPUs in Victoria require a planning permit. The application is assessed against local planning scheme provisions, including setbacks, site coverage, overlooking, and overshadowing. Some councils may have specific local policies that apply.

Building Permit

In addition to a planning permit, you will also need a building permit. This covers structural compliance, energy efficiency, accessibility, and safety standards under the National Construction Code.

How Much Does a Granny Flat Cost in Victoria?

Typical costs for a granny flat in Victoria in 2026:

Drafting and Design

Professional drafting for a DPU is quoted on the design and the site. Complexity and the approval pathway move the fee more than a published rate would.

Construction

Construction costs vary widely depending on size, finishes, and site conditions. The build, including services and connections, is by far the larger part of the budget.

Council and Permit Fees

Planning permit application fees and building permit fees are a further, smaller part of the project cost, set by council and the building surveyor rather than by the drafter.

The Approval Process Step by Step

1. Site Assessment

We assess your property to determine what is feasible, including setbacks, access, services, and any planning overlays that may apply.

2. Design Development

We prepare concept plans based on your requirements and the site constraints. This includes floor plans, elevations, and site plans.

3. Planning Permit Application

We prepare and lodge the planning permit application with your local council. This includes all required drawings, shadow diagrams, and supporting documentation.

4. Building Permit

Once planning approval is granted, we prepare detailed construction drawings for the building permit application.

5. Construction

With both permits in hand, your builder can commence construction.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Checking the Dependency Requirement

If the intended occupant does not meet the dependency criteria, the DPU may not be approved. Always confirm eligibility before investing in plans.

Ignoring Setback Requirements

Every council has minimum setback requirements from boundaries. Failing to meet these will result in your application being refused or requiring costly amendments.

Underestimating Services

Connecting water, sewer, electricity, and gas to a separate dwelling can be expensive. Factor this into your budget from the start.

Skipping the Site Measure

Accurate site measurements are essential. If your existing conditions are wrong, every drawing produced from them will contain errors.

How Arya Designs Can Help

We specialise in granny flat and DPU plans across Melbourne and Victoria. Our service includes professional site measures, full planning permit drawing sets, council liaison, and building permit documentation.

With over 10 years of experience and a 95% approval success rate, we take the complexity out of the process so you can focus on your project.

Ready to Get Started?

Upload your site details and project brief and we will send you a fixed quote within 24 hours. No obligation, no hidden fees, just professional drafting that gets results.