Bega Valley Shire Mayor Russell Fitzpatrick has unloaded on the State Government over the lack of clear laws governing tiny homes in NSW.
Council has come under intense public criticism after issuing an eviction notice in April for a tiny home of wheels from a Coolagolite property. A recent petition by homes owners attracted over 21,000 signatures.
Councillor Fitzpatrick recently met with Planning Minister Paul Scully, who told him the issue was not high on his agenda.
But the Mayor said that’s not good enough.
“The current NSW planning framework doesn’t recognise ‘tiny homes’ as a legitimate housing type, resulting in a range of products marketed and sold as tiny homes or caravans that do not comply with existing regulations. Under state planning laws, these structures can’t be approved,” he said.
“There is significant confusion in the community regarding what constitutes a caravan under the legislation and the conditions under which a ‘tiny home’ or caravan require approval.
“When incorrect information spreads or assumptions are made, people might end up purchasing or choosing to live in a home that can’t be approved under state legislation.
“In these cases, we have to follow state planning laws and take action, which can lead to unfair criticism of Council and our staff—yet we are simply enforcing state government legislation to ensure safe housing for people and the environment.
“The legislation needs to be updated and the state government needs to issue its position on these structures now. The community needs better guidance, and the NSW Government needs to take responsibility for the angst and frustration being felt across NSW.
“This is not a matter for later this year; it requires attention now.”
