Second Dwelling — Plans & Permits Ready to Build
Under Victoria's Housing Statement reforms (Amendment VC253), most properties can now add a granny flat or second dwelling up to 60m² without a planning permit. A building permit is always required — and that's exactly what we prepare. We handle the site check, architectural design and all permit documentation so your builder can start without delay.
- Site & Overlay Feasibility Check
- Architectural Plans (up to 60m²)
- Building Permit Documentation
- Planning Permit (Where Required)
- NCC & Building Regulations Compliance
Our Second Dwelling Process
Victoria's reformed planning rules make adding a second dwelling simpler than ever — we handle design and approvals so your builder can get straight to work.
Site & Overlay Assessment
We check your property's zone, lot size, overlays and any covenants to confirm eligibility. Most residential lots over 300m² qualify for a planning permit exemption under Amendment VC253 — but flooding, heritage or environmental overlays can change that.
Design & Architectural Plans
We design a self-contained second dwelling up to 60m² gross floor area — detached at the rear, attached to the main home, or a studio conversion — and produce full architectural drawings compliant with NCC Volume 2 and the Building Regulations 2018.
Planning Permit (Where Required)
Where your property has a heritage, flooding or environmental overlay that triggers a planning permit, we prepare and lodge the application. Eligible applications can be fast-tracked through VicSmart for approval within 10 business days.
Building Permit Documentation
A building permit is always required regardless of planning exemptions. We produce complete working drawings, siting plans and specifications ready for a registered building surveyor.
Free Quote — No Obligation
3 quick steps to your free quote
Tap an option or fill in each field — it takes under a minute, and a designer follows up personally within 1 business day.
Step 1 of 3 — tap one to continue
What are you looking to build?
Select the service that best matches your project
Step 2 of 3
Where is the project located?
We'll check council zone and permit requirements for your address
Step 3 of 3 — last one
How do we reach you?
We'll be in touch within 1 business day with a free quote and site assessment
Enquiry received
We'll be in touch shortly. The PD Studio team will review your project and respond within 1 business day with a free quote and site assessment.
FAQ
Common questions about second dwellings and granny flats in Victoria
Under Amendment VC253, most residential properties over 300m² can add a second dwelling up to 60m² gross floor area without a planning permit. A building permit is always required. Overlays can trigger a planning permit requirement — PD Studio verifies all of this before any design work begins.
The exemption under VC253 applies to second dwellings up to 60m² gross floor area. The proposal must also meet Minister's Guideline MG-12, which sets development standards covering setbacks, site coverage, private open space and amenity.
Yes. A second dwelling must be fully self-contained — including a kitchen, bathroom, toilet and laundry facilities. PD Studio designs compact, self-contained layouts that make the most of the 60m² allowance.
Where your property has a heritage, flooding or environmental overlay that triggers a planning permit, PD Studio prepares and lodges the application. Eligible applications can be fast-tracked through VicSmart for approval within 10 business days.
Yes — a building permit is required regardless of whether a planning permit is needed. PD Studio produces complete working drawings compliant with NCC Volume 2 and the Building Regulations 2018.
Yes. A second dwelling built with a valid building permit and final occupancy permit can be rented as a separate tenancy under Victorian residential tenancy law. There is no requirement that the main dwelling be owner-occupied.
A building permit typically takes 2–4 weeks from lodgement, depending on the building surveyor and whether structural engineering is required.
Fees vary depending on whether a planning permit is required and the design complexity. PD Studio provides a fixed-fee quote after a free site assessment.
Client Testimonials
What Our Clients Say
5.0 · 53 Google reviews
"Working with Albert and PD Studio was an absolute pleasure. Their professionalism and dedication to client service are truly exceptional. Every time I reached out, they were prompt, attentive, and went above and beyond to help."
"Very happy with the service from PD Studio. The turnaround time is fast, and communication is always clear with regular feedback throughout the process. They consistently provide practical recommendations on building materials."
"I'd like to share my experience with PDSTUDIO from start to finish. Albert and Zeyn were outstanding in their communication, both face to face and via email. I can't thank them enough for their professionalism and support."
"PD STUDIOS is an elite architecture firm. Excellent design, great communication, and very professional. If you want quality work and a smooth process, this is the team to go with."
"PD Studio made our dual occupancy development seamless. Their expertise in planning permits and council requirements saved us months of work."
"Excellent architectural service. They maximised our block potential and handled all subdivision paperwork professionally."