Minor Dwelling Restrictions That Could Derail Your Project
Nathan Strawbridge
Director
Planning a minor dwelling? Before you get too far into it, there are some crucial restrictions you need to check first.
These could completely change your plans – or even make a minor dwelling impossible on your property.
Many people spend weeks or months researching minor dwellings online, only to find out that their property has limitations they never knew about. By then, they've already wasted a chunk of time heading down the wrong path.
Getting clarity on restrictions during your initial research phase can save you significant time, money, and frustration. It's much better to know about potential roadblocks upfront than after you've fallen in love with a particular design or started spending money on plans.
Every property is different, and what works for your neighbour might not work for you. Here's some key restrictions you might encounter:
District Plan Restrictions
Not all zones allow minor dwellings, and those that do often come with specific rules. Some areas have special character overlays where councils want to preserve a certain architectural style or environmental feature. This could limit your design options or require additional consent processes.
Infrastructure Constraints
This one catches many people off guard. Some parts of Auckland and the Waikato currently have moratoriums on new developments – including minor dwellings – because the existing water and sewer infrastructure simply can't handle additional demand. No amount of planning or money can overcome this if your area is affected.
Power Supply Limitations
Most residential properties have a 63-amp power supply. If your main house already has high electricity demands – think induction cooktops, large heat pumps, or electric hot water – you might be close to capacity already. Adding a second dwelling could mean expensive electrical upgrades or careful planning around power usage to avoid overloading your system.
Site Coverage Limits
If your property is already near its maximum allowed building coverage, you'll need to demonstrate that adding a minor dwelling won't negatively impact your neighbours or local infrastructure. This might mean additional reports, modified designs, or even removing existing structures.
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Get the Right Information, Early
Why not reach out and see what's actually possible on your property?
A brief conversation with me can give you site-specific information that's far more useful than generic online research. In less than half an hour, you'll know what's actually possible on your property and what potential hurdles you might face.
Remember, the best decisions start with the right information.
This initial conversation is free. No obligations, no sales pressure, just practical advice tailored to your situation. Click here to book your consultation.
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