Shellharbour City Council's Tiny Homes Pilot Program is now underway, creating a new pathway for eligible mobile tiny homes to be used as long-term rental accommodation across the Shellharbour local government area.
The two-year pilot aims to increase housing choice by supporting an additional rental option for local residents while maintaining appropriate planning and safety requirements.
The pilot was developed in response to growing housing affordability and rental supply challenges and will help Council understand how mobile tiny homes operate in a real-world setting before considering any future planning changes.
Why did Council introduce the pilot?
Housing affordability and rental availability continue to be significant challenges for many people in our community.
The pilot has two main objectives:
- Increase housing diversity and affordability by providing a more flexible and lower-cost rental option.
- Test how mobile tiny homes work in practice before considering any future planning changes.
The pilot will run for two years and be monitored throughout the trial period to assess its effectiveness.
Who can apply?
Applications may be lodged for mobile tiny homes that:
- Are built on wheels and are a registrable vehicle.
- Meet the eligibility requirements outlined in Council's Local Approvals Policy.
- Are proposed to be located on suitable residential land.
- Comply with relevant planning, safety and servicing requirements.
Applicants should review all eligibility criteria before lodging an application.
How to apply
- Review the Local Approvals Policy and eligibility requirements.
- Confirm your property and proposed tiny home meet the pilot requirements.
- Complete the application form and provide the required supporting information.
- Submit your application to Council for assessment.
Applications will be assessed against the requirements of the pilot program.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a mobile tiny home and a granny flat?
A mobile tiny home is built on wheels and is considered a 'registrable vehicle'. A granny flat is a permanent building and requires a different planning approval pathway.
Do I need a development application?
Eligible mobile tiny homes may be approved through Council's Mobile Tiny Homes Pilot Policy and Eligibility Criteria. without the need for a development application, provided all pilot requirements are met.
Who can apply?
Owners of suitable residential properties and eligible mobile tiny homes that meet the requirements of the pilot.
Can any tiny home be used under the pilot?
No. Only eligible mobile tiny homes that meet the pilot requirements can participate.
Can a tiny home be installed on any residential property?
No. Properties must meet the eligibility requirements outlined in Council's Mobile Tiny Homes Pilot Policy and Eligibility Criteria.
What requirements must a mobile tiny home meet?
Mobile tiny homes must comply with the pilot requirements, including registration, location, servicing and safety requirements.
Will the tiny home need water, sewer and electricity connections?
Yes. Appropriate servicing arrangements must be provided in line with the pilot requirements.
What happens after the pilot?
Council will monitor and evaluate the pilot throughout the trial period. The findings will help inform future decisions about whether the program should continue, be amended or conclude.