Two separate approvals
- Zoning. Your council's land use scheme decides whether a second dwelling is allowed on your stand, how big it may be, and what parking it needs. Some zonings allow it outright; others need a consent use or rezoning, applied for by a town planner. Johannesburg, for example, lists second dwellings and subsidiary dwelling units as plan submission categories, as defined in its land use scheme.
- Building plans. The flat is drawn and approved like any dwelling: site plan, floor plan, sections, elevations, drainage, fire separation, and SANS 10400-XA energy information.
Before anything is drawn
Read the zoning certificate and the title deed. An old title condition of one dwelling per erf binds even if the zoning allows more, until it is removed.
Questions people ask
Can I build a granny flat without plans?
No. A dwelling is not minor building work. Building without approved plans is an offence, and an unapproved flat causes problems when you sell or claim insurance.
Sources
- National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act 103 of 1977 (the dtic copy)
- City of Johannesburg CPMS submission checklists (minor works list)
- Micrographics: SANS 10400-XA:2021 Edition 2 published
Checked October 2026. Councils change their tariffs every July, so confirm fees before you pay.