Homeowners on the Hibiscus Coast wanting to add a garden shed, small garage, or sleep-out will soon face fewer rules and faster approvals.

By the end of 2025, new government changes will relax setback requirements for small buildings.

Cabinet has agreed to scrap the minimum distance rule for single-storey buildings under 10 square metres and reduce the setback to just one metre for those between 10 and 30 square metres.

Previously, sheds and similar buildings had to be as far from a boundary or another residential building as they were tall.

Anything closer needed a costly and time-consuming building consent.

Regulation Minister David Seymour says the shift came after hearing frustrations via the Red Tape Tipline.

“Section sizes are shrinking, and the cost of living rising. Forcing people to put sheds in the middle of their lawn or pay for consent doesn’t make sense.”

Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says the change is a “real win” for anyone short on space, giving them more freedom to add useful backyard structures without extra paperwork.

For Coasties, it means it will soon be easier to create storage for bikes and tools, a sheltered spot for the car, or even a cosy guest sleepout — without jumping through as many hoops.

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