Council to waive additional fees on granny flats

LISMORE residents will be able to build granny flats more cheaply, with council waiving additional fees for the next two years.

Lismore City Council said there will be no developer levies charged on top of standard development application costs until June 30, 2027.

Mayor Steve Krieg said the initiative is part of council’s Affordable and Diverse Housing Incentives Policy.

“This is a practical step that will make it easier and more affordable for people to build a granny flat,” he said.

“Whether it is to provide space for family or rental income, this policy helps residents invest in housing that supports both their household and our wider community.”

Applicants who receive the fee waiver on developer contributions can also combine it with the council’s $15,000 Housing Grant Program incentive if eligible. The program encourages residents, landowners and housing providers to build or relocate new homes within the Lismore Local Government Area.

The grants cover six categories, including first-home buyers, landowners adding a second small dwelling, flood-affected relocations and developers delivering affordable rental housing.

“Secondary dwellings are one of the most flexible and affordable ways to increase housing supply,” acting head of planning and environment Jamie van Iersel said.

“By removing developer contributions for the next two years, council is lowering a key cost barrier and encouraging more residents to consider building.

“This supports the targets in our Affordable and Diverse Housing Strategy, which commits to ensuring 40% of new housing in Lismore is diverse or medium density by 2033.”

Residents considering a granny flat are also encouraged to take advantage of council’s free duty planning service, available on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

The service offers a 30-minute session with a Development Assessment planner who can provide general planning advice in person or over the phone.