Backyard caravan regulations tweaked in Queensland

New Fraser Coast local laws will be operating within weeks to allow property owners or occupiers to let family or friends live in a caravan in their backyard for up to six months in a 12-month period.

“These changes will allow people to provide free temporary accommodation to family and friends who cannot find rental accommodation,” Cr Jade Wellings said.

“There is a critical shortage of rental accommodation across the country, and this is one way council can help.

“While housing is primarily a State Government responsibility, our community is looking to us as local leaders to do something in this space.

“This proposal certainly won’t be a silver bullet, but it may help take some pressure off and help people to take care of their loved ones in their time of need.”

The amendments include regulations to safeguard the amenity of neighbours, and residents will have to complete a registration form before allowing a caravan to be used as temporary accommodation on their property.

The new requirements do not override existing regulations which allow residents to let friends and family visiting on holidays to stay for four weeks in a caravan in their backyard.

Under the new regulations, the permanent residence on the property also must be permanently occupied at the same time, and set back provisions apply.

There are also provisions in the local laws to ensure that greywater and sanitation are managed, and property owners cannot charge rent or ask for payment.

“We made the change to let our community help out family and friends in their time of need, while they are in-between more permanent accommodation,” Cr Wellings said.

The arrangement will last until at least 31 December 2027, and comes after community consultation and feedback and consultation with the Queensland Government.