Can a garage be converted into the second residence?
Yes, potentially. A garage may be converted into a secondary residence if the conversion meets the applicable planning and residential building requirements. As a garage is generally a Class 10a non-habitable building, approval and building upgrades may be required before it can be used as a dwelling.
Yes, potentially. An existing garage may be converted into a secondary residence (granny flat) if the proposed conversion meets the applicable planning and building requirements.
A garage is generally a non-habitable Class 10a building, so it cannot simply be used as a dwelling without ensuring it meets the requirements for residential occupation. Building work and approval may be required for matters such as structure, fire safety, insulation, ventilation, natural light, waterproofing and other residential building standards.
The completed secondary residence must also meet the applicable ACT planning requirements, including the maximum dwelling size of 90 m², excluding the garage.
Reference: Territory Plan 2023 – Part E01 Residential Zone Policy - Territory Plan 2023 | Notifiable instruments
Link on the answer: https://www.legislation.act.gov.au/ni/2023-540/Current
Where this question is kept
| Dual Occupancy Q&A | #345 | agrees | 10/08/2026 |