Council Regulations and Tiny Houses

Soaring rents and home prices, increasing mortgage stress, record immigration, and a growing population are fueling a housing crisis and increasing homelessness in Australia. In the face of this pressing need, tiny houses offer an alternative housing option.

The Growing Popularity of Tiny Houses

Tiny houses have gained immense popularity in the United States and are growing in popularity in other developed countries such as the UK and Canada. However, in Australia, planning and housing regulations present many barriers to using tiny houses as permanent homes.

Dire Need for Affordable Housing

Dire statistics highlight the urgent need to find homes for Australians quickly and cheaply. The unmet need for social housing has been estimated at 437,000 households. The 2021 census counted 122,494 people as homeless. By 2022, more than 640,000 households’ housing needs were not being met. These numbers underscore the critical housing shortage and the need for innovative solutions.

Tiny Houses as a Solution

Recognizing the growing interest in alternative and compact housing solutions, some local councils now see tiny houses as part of the solution to these problems. They are taking steps to make it easier for people to live in tiny houses.

Boddington Shire Leading the Way

Ever so slowly, Australia is turning the corner. Boddington Shire in Western Australia is set to welcome tiny homes. At the Ordinary Council Meeting on 23 April 2024, the Council resolved to endorse for advertising, draft Local Planning Policy 21 – Tiny Houses on Wheels. This policy provides a framework for the establishment and regulation of tiny houses within the Shire of Boddington.

Australia is Trailing a Global Movement

The tiny house movement is built on several values, including a preference for smaller homes, the pursuit of minimalism, the desire to live more sustainably, and a rejection of the prevailing consumer culture. The 2018 International Housing Code defines tiny houses as dwellings of 400 square feet (37 square meters) in area or less. In Australia, dwellings under 50 square meters are commonly regarded as tiny houses.

The two main types are tiny houses on foundations and tiny houses on wheels. The latter is built on a trailer and must comply with road-legal dimensions and vehicle regulations. Tiny houses have long been used as dwellings overseas. Faced with high property prices and land scarcity, those who enjoy the convenience of city life with a minimalist lifestyle have embraced tiny homes.

Examples of Global Tiny House Usage

Examples include micro-homes in Tokyo, where Japanese micro-homes are often sited on irregular leftover pieces of land. In the US, the Occupy Madison Village is a tiny house commune in Madison, Wisconsin. It provides housing, communal living, and community-based decision-making for homeless people to promote their sense of belonging and social participation.

The Challenge of Diverse Regulations

While Boddington Shire’s move is a positive step, it’s important to note that regulations and requirements for tiny houses vary widely across Australian councils. This diversity can create confusion and barriers for those looking to adopt tiny living. Each council has its own set of rules regarding land use, building codes, and zoning laws, making it essential for prospective tiny house owners to thoroughly research and understand the specific regulations in their area.

Examples of Local Council Regulations

Here are a few examples of how different councils are approaching the regulation of tiny houses:

• Byron Shire, NSW: Known for its progressive stance on environmental and housing issues, Byron Shire has been more open to the concept of tiny houses. They have been considering amendments to their local planning policies to facilitate the inclusion of tiny houses as secondary dwellings on existing properties.
• Moorabool Shire, VIC: This council has been working on guidelines to allow tiny houses on wheels as a form of temporary accommodation. However, they still require adherence to specific health and safety standards.
• Sunshine Coast, QLD: The Sunshine Coast Regional Council has shown interest in tiny houses but emphasizes compliance with building and planning codes. They are exploring ways to integrate tiny homes into their broader housing strategy.

Navigating the Regulations

For those interested in tiny house living, it’s crucial to engage with local councils early in the planning process. Here are some steps to help navigate the regulations:

1. Research Local Policies: Start by understanding the specific regulations and policies in your area. Council websites and planning departments can provide valuable information.
2. Consult with Experts: Engage with professionals who specialize in tiny house construction and local planning regulations. They can offer insights and help ensure compliance.
3. Join the Movement: Connect with tiny house advocacy groups and communities. They often have resources and networks that can provide support and guidance.

Conclusion

Tiny houses offer a promising solution to Australia’s housing crisis, providing affordable and flexible living options. While the regulatory landscape can be challenging, the efforts of councils like Boddington Shire demonstrate that progress is being made. As more councils recognize the potential of tiny houses, we can hope for a future where these innovative homes become a common part of Australia’s housing landscape.