Living in a caravan or Tiny House on Wheels on your property within the Sunshine Coast Council area involves adhering to specific regulations and guidelines. Here's an overview of the key points you need to consider:
General Rules and Regulations:
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Temporary Accommodation Permits:
- To live in a caravan on your property, you generally need a temporary accommodation permit from the Sunshine Coast Council.
- Temporary accommodation is usually permitted during the construction of a permanent dwelling on the property.
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Time Limitations:
- There are typically strict time limitations on how long you can live in a caravan on your property. This is often limited to a period while building a permanent residence.
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Health and Safety:
- The caravan must meet health and safety standards, including access to adequate sanitation, water supply, and waste management.
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Zoning and Land Use:
- Check the zoning of your property to ensure it permits the use of a caravan for living purposes.
- Different zones have different requirements and restrictions.
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Development Approval:
- In some cases, you may need development approval to use a caravan as a temporary dwelling.
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Utility Connections:
- You need to ensure the caravan is connected to essential utilities such as electricity, water, and sewage in a manner that meets council standards.
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Neighbours and Community Impact:
- Consider the impact on neighbors and the community. Complaints can lead to inspections and enforcement actions by the council.
Steps to Take:
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Contact Sunshine Coast Council:
- The first step is to contact the Sunshine Coast Council to get detailed and specific information about living in a caravan on your property.
- You can visit the council’s website or call their customer service for guidance.
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Submit an Application:
- If required, submit an application for a temporary accommodation permit or development approval.
- Provide all necessary documentation, including site plans, sanitation plans, and proof of intention to build a permanent dwelling (if applicable).
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Compliance with Regulations:
- Ensure your caravan setup complies with all relevant regulations, including health and safety standards, utility connections, and zoning requirements.
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Inspections:
- Be prepared for inspections by council officers to ensure compliance with all conditions of the permit or approval.
Important Contacts:
- Sunshine Coast Council Customer Service: Sunshine Coast Council Contact Page
- Planning and Development Services: Call the council's planning and development services for specific inquiries related to land use and zoning.
Additional Resources:
- Sunshine Coast Council Temporary Accommodation Guidelines: Check for any available guidelines or brochures on the council's website that provide detailed information about temporary accommodation rules.
- Local Community Forums: Engage with local community forums or groups where residents might share their experiences and advice about living in a caravan on private property.
By following these steps and ensuring compliance with local regulations, you can navigate the process of living in a caravan on your property within the Sunshine Coast Council area.