Dreaming of extra space? A cozy sleepout for guests, a second dwelling for family, or a shed for your hobbies? At Cosy Cabins, we’re here to make it happen—but first, let’s decode New Zealand’s rules. Don’t let regulations dim your vision; here’s a quick, clear guide to what you can (and can’t) do, based on the latest from NZ’s Building Act and council guidelines.

Sleepouts: Your Instant Space Fix

A sleepout is a detached building for sleeping or working, tied to your main house. Think guest room or home office—perfect for that teen craving independence.

Size: Up to 30m²? No building consent if built by a Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) or a pre-approved kitset. Over 10m² otherwise needs consent.

Rules: No kitchen or bathroom allowed—use the main house for those. Must have smoke alarms and be a safe distance from boundaries (check your council).

Example: Our “For Play” range is perfect for your instant space fix, to add a bathroom and kitchen just add a consent

Second Dwellings: A Home Within a Home

Self-contained units (aka granny flats) with kitchens and bathrooms—ideal for rentals or aging parents.

Size: Varies by council (e.g., 70m² in Selwyn, 90m² in some zones), but always needs building consent.

Rules: One per property in most zones. Requires resource consent if zoning or size limits are breached. Must connect to services (water, sewage).

Example: A 48m² Cosy 48 with a kitchen and bath? Consent’s a must, but it’s bnb gold.

Small Structures: Sheds and More

Sheds, greenhouses, or studios—simple, functional additions.

Size: Up to 30m² without consent if lightweight and LBP-built. Over that, or with plumbing? Consent required.

Rules: No sleeping or sanitation use. Must meet Building Code (e.g., height under 3.5m).

Example: A 20m² shed for your tools—quick, consent-free bliss.

NZ’s rules balance safety and freedom. Sleepouts keep it simple, second dwellings add versatility, and small structures solve storage woes.

Ready to transform your backyard? Contact Cosy Cabins at info@cosycabins.co.nz or call 0800 297 397—we’ll guide you every step of the way!

To find out more about our range, features and bespoke options Get in touch today.