Council is seeking feedback on the new draft Local Approvals Policy for Temporary Accommodation While Constructing a Dwelling.
Living on site during construction of a dwelling on larger land holdings has a range of benefits, particularly for owner-builders. It means the need for property owners to find short-term accommodation in an already tight housing market is removed or shortened.
The proposed policy would enable property owners to apply to live on site in a shed or caravan while constructing a home if:
- the property is a single land holding over 2ha
- approval for construction of a dwelling (Construction Certificate or Complying Development Certificate) has been granted for the site
- is limited to 12 months, with the possibility of an extension for a further 12 months subject to evidence of substantial works being undertaken on the site
- a shower, basin, toilet and temporary kitchen sink are connected to either sewerage mains or an approved on-site effluent disposal system where appropriate and approved
- an adequate water supply is available
- a working smoke alarm has been installed
- located in a bushfire prone area, adequate measures are in place for safe evacuation and any required asset protection zones are in place, and
- adequate construction progress is maintained during the period of occupation.
Feedback can be provided by:
- Completing the online form below
- Emailing feedback directly to council@qprc.nsw.gov.au with the subject title "Temporary Accommodation While Constructing a Dwelling"
- Handwriting your submission and delivering it to Council's Customer Service Centres
- Posting your submission to PO Box 90, Queanbeyan NSW 2620
Submissions must be received by Council by Thursday 11 June 2026.
