The 70m² Advantage - the Schedule 1A exemption pathway.
Aotearoa's updated Schedule 1A exemption pathway lets Kiwis build a single-storey, detached dwelling up to 70m² - designed and built by an LBP - potentially without a building consent. Every NOHO model is optimised to support this pathway.
Can I build a granny flat, tiny home or small dwelling without consent?
Answer six quick questions to see whether your proposed granny flat, tiny home, cabin, minor dwelling or small home may qualify under New Zealand's Schedule 1A pathway.
Consent-free vs. full consent.
| NOHO 70m² (Schedule 1A) | Standard build w/ consent | |
|---|---|---|
| Building consent | Not required | Required (8–20+ weeks) |
| Council fees | $0 building consent | $3,000 – $12,000+ |
| Time to start | Days, not months | 3–6+ months of paperwork |
| LBP designed & built | Required (we handle it) | Required |
| Resource consent (if needed) | Same as standard | Same as standard |
| Building Code compliance | Required | Required |
| Typical all-in cost | From $89k | Often 30–50% higher |
Designed inside the exemption - not retrofitted to it.
Single-storey by design
Every model is drawn as a single level - no mezzanines, no second floors that disqualify the exemption.
Always under 70m²
Our largest model maxes out at 68m² of floor area - so you stay safely inside the cap.
LBP-stamped plans
Plans are produced by Licensed Building Practitioners and built with details Code-compliant for NZ conditions.
What about RMA / Resource Consent?+
Even if your plans qualify for the building consent exemption, you may still need resource consent under your local district plan. Rules vary by region and even by suburb. Read the full 2026 RMA guide or use our free Site Check service.
Common questions about Schedule 1A.
How does the Schedule 1A exemption pathway work?+
Under Schedule 1A of the Building Act, a single-storey detached dwelling up to 70m² designed and built by an LBP may not require a building consent. You'll still need to comply with the Building Code and your local district plan, and final eligibility is determined by your LBP and council.
Do I still need council involvement?+
Generally no building consent is required - but resource consent may apply depending on zoning, height-to-boundary, coverage or overland flow paths. We help you check this in our Site Check.
Can I add plumbing and electrical?+
Yes. Plumbing and electrical work must be done by licensed tradespeople and may require their own certifications.
What if my site is tricky (slope, flood, heritage)?+
Some sites need extra steps. Our team gives you an honest steer - and full consent support if Schedule 1A isn't the right path for your whenua.
How are NOHO plans designed for this?+
Every NOHO model is drawn under 70m², single-storey, by Licensed Building Practitioners, with construction details that support the Building Code. They're designed to support projects seeking the 2026 small stand-alone dwelling exemption.
Ready to build the smart way?
Browse our ready-to-build mahere and download the full plan set instantly - ready for your LBP.