Granny annexe

Granny annexe, also granny flat, came into more common use from around the 1970's through to the 1990's. It simply describes an extension, annexe, outbuilding or addition to a main residence that is self-contained accommodation and suitable for an elderly parent to live.

Granny annexes as self-contained living units are likely to require planning permission, the term itself doesnt appear formally in planning law though relevant planning terms are "ancillary accommodation," "outbuildings," "annexes," and in certain cases "caravan"and "permitted development rights". The nature of the self contained unit in terms of its permanence can impact how it is dealt with in terms of planning.

Surprisingly perhaps some granny annexes may have similar considerations to static caravans if they meet certain criteria. The Caravan Act 1968 gives its definition of a caravan in section 13 as being a structure that is designed for human residence and can be transported by road with a width of 6.8 metres, a length 20 metres and 3.05 metres height. The structure must also not be permanently fixed to the ground. It is worth noting however that there were also changes to permitted development in 2023‎, and worth referring to The Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development etc.) (England) (Amendment) Order 2023.

[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings

• Camp.
• Caravan.
• Caravan site.
• Caravan Sites and Control of Development Act 1960.
• Changes to permitted development in 2023‎.
• Controls on traveller development.
• Could microhousing tackle London's housing crisis?
• Green belt.
• Gypsies and travellers and travelling showpeople.
• Micro dwelling.
• Mobile home.
• National Planning Policy Framework.
• Outbuildings definition.
• Planning permission.
• Review of housing needs for caravans and houseboats.
• Revised planning policy for traveller sites.
• Tent.
• Tiny house.
• Touring caravan.
• The Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development etc.) (England) (Amendment) Order 2023‎.