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Do I Need Council Approval for a Portable Cabin?

One of the most common questions we get asked at Wheely Cabins is about council approval. The short answer is: typically, no, provided you meet certain criteria.

Classified as a Caravan

Our portable home rentals are built on a chassis with wheels, which gives them the legal status of a caravan or "moveable dwelling" rather than a permanent structure.

In New South Wales, the Local Government (Manufactured Home Estates, Caravan Parks, Camping Grounds and Moveable Dwellings) Regulation 2021 often allows for a caravan to be used on land without prior council approval under specific circumstances, such as:

  • It is used by a member of the household.
  • It is employed for a temporary purpose (like during renovations).
  • It is maintained in a safe and healthy condition.

Important Considerations

While most of our clients find they do not need a Development Application (DA), some rules may vary between local councils (e.g., Central Coast Council vs. Lake Macquarie vs. Sydney councils). Some councils may have restrictions on:

  • The number of days a "caravan" can be occupied per year if you have more than one.
  • Distance from boundaries.
  • Waste water management.

We recommend reading this article on Domain regarding legal precedents for cabins on wheels.

Need specific advice?

Every property is different. While we can provide general guidance based on our experience across Sydney, Newcastle, and the Central Coast, we always recommend checking with your local council or a town planner if you are unsure.

Contact us regarding your specific location →

Why Portable Cabins are a Flexible Solution

Because our cabins are non-permanent and easily relocatable, they are an excellent solution for:

  • Temporary accommodation while building or renovating a home.
  • Independent living for elderly relatives (granny pods).
  • Teenage retreats or home offices.

Ready to explore your options according to your budget? Check out our cabins and pricing.