Planning and permits

The SSD pathway removes a lot of the friction of approving a second dwelling, but it is not approval-free. Here is what is in scope, what is out, and where the line sits.

Planning permit

Most SSDs on standard residential blocks do not need a full planning permit, provided the dwelling stays inside 60m² and meets the relevant rescode standards. We confirm this during the site assessment, which can save you the stress of planning applications that usually take over 6 months. It also keeps the decision making in your hands, instead of with your neighbours.

Building permit

A building permit is still required for every SSD. This is a technical document covering structure, energy, and safety, and is issued by a registered building surveyor rather than your council. Our team prepares the documentation and engages the surveyor on your behalf. It normally takes about 4 weeks once we have all the documentation in place.

Other approvals

• Asset protection permit: needed when the build affects council infrastructure such as the footpath or kerb during construction.
• Stormwater connection: councils require legal stormwater discharge to be designed and approved before works begin.
• Service connections: power, water, and sewer connections each require their own utility approval and metering.

What we handle

Small Homes Victoria runs the approvals end to end. We submit, follow up, and resolve every condition through to the building permit issuing. You are kept informed at each milestone, but you do not have to navigate the paperwork yourself.