The rules around tiny homes in Australia can feel overwhelming. Every state has different regulations, councils interpret them differently, and just when you think you understand it all, someone mentions ADR compliance or bushfire overlays.
Here's what actually matters for your tiny home journey.
The Quick Answer
If your tiny home is on wheels (a THOW) and meets caravan standards, it's legally a caravan - bypassing building codes entirely. You can park in caravan parks, temporarily in backyards, or on private land with restrictions.
Fixed tiny homes are treated as dwellings, requiring building approvals if going through council, but work brilliantly as granny flats on properties with existing homes.
Where You Can Actually Put a Tiny Home
Queensland
According to Queensland Government Planning:
THOWs: Treated as caravans under local laws - often no planning approval needed
Fixed homes: Need building and plumbing approvals under the Building Act 1975
Rural properties: Protected agricultural zones typically restrict multiple dwellings
New South Wales
NSW gives you options, with each council taking their own approach:
Temporary placement: 60 days per year without approval
Game changer: Shellharbour's pilot program (pending final approval) will streamline backyard rentals
Council guides: Byron Shire and MidCoast offer detailed resources
Victoria
Victoria's Small Second Homes initiative is genuinely progressive:
Under 60m²: Skip planning permits in most zones
Lot requirements: Over 300m² exempt; smaller lots need permits under Amendment VC282 (September 2025)
Building permits: Always required for safety compliance
Western Australia
The WA Government recently updated their approach:
Extended stays: Up to 24 months on private land with council approval
Short term: 5 nights without needing approval
Clear definitions: Their Typologies Guide explains classifications
Connecting Your Tiny Home
Based on Australian Building Codes Board guidelines:
Power: Standard 15-amp plug for most THOWs; 32-amp for higher needs; off-grid solar $15,000-$25,000
Water: Direct connection to mains or tanks; licensed plumber required for permanent setups
Sewer: Composting toilets (no plumber needed) or traditional plumbing ($500-$2,000)
Timeline: 3-7 days basic setup; 2-3 weeks with full professional installation
THOW vs Fixed - Understanding Your Options
Tiny Homes on Wheels Australian Design Rules set legal caravan limits:
Maximum: 2.5m wide, 4.3m high, 12.5m long, 4.5 tonnes
Requires vehicle registration
Larger models (like 3m wide) exist but fall outside standard definitions, potentially triggering different approvals
Fixed Tiny Homes Follow the National Construction Code:
Full building approval process
Treated as secondary dwellings
Permanent installation
Your Setup Journey
Research your area - Check specific requirements (Hilltops, Bega Valley examples)
Understand your property - Zoning, overlays (especially bushfire in regional areas), and existing structures
Decide on approvals - If pursuing council approval, allow 6-12 weeks
Prepare your site - Level ground, access, service connections
Schedule delivery - Towing for THOWs, crane for fixed
Connect services - Book trades in advance
Move in
Investment reality:
Tiny home: $100,000-$200,000 depending on size and fit-out
Site connections: $2,000-$5,000
Council fees: $500-$10,000 if pursuing approvals
Buffer: 20% for unexpected costs
Key Considerations
Regional properties: Often have bushfire overlays and environmental protections - manageable with proper planning
Time limits matter: Temporary means temporary - explore permanent options if staying longer
Off-grid is possible: Solar and composting systems have standards, but are absolutely doable
Recent Changes
Victoria's Amendment VC253: Simplified small second homes
Shellharbour pilot: Pioneering integration (awaiting final approval)
WA's 24-month rule: Practical temporary accommodation approach
Your Next Step
Every property has unique possibilities and constraints. Before purchasing, it helps to know:
Your property's specific zoning and overlays
Whether THOW or fixed suits your situation
Which size works within regulations
Your complete project timeline and budget
As a licensed agent specialising in tiny homes, I provide end-to-end support - from choosing the right design and builder through to delivery and setup on your land.
Ready for professional guidance from design to delivery? Explore our Buyer's Agency service
Official Resources
Federal: ADR Compliance | National Construction Code
States: Queensland | Victoria | Western Australia