attefallshus

Attefallshus is a term used in Sweden for a small dwelling that can be built on a property with an existing house without a full building permit, provided certain rules are met. The concept stems from reforms implemented in 2014 under the name of the housing minister Stefan Attefall, aimed at simplifying access to additional housing capacity.

Key characteristics are: maximum building area up to 30 square meters; a height limit that commonly places the highest point around four meters; and the requirement to be built on the owner’s own property within the framework of applicable planning rules. Construction under this regime requires an notifications process (anmälan) to the municipality rather than a traditional bygglov application, though the municipality can impose conditions or refuse if the project conflicts with local zoning or detailed plans (detaljplan).

The intended use of an attefallshus is to provide an extra living space that can serve as a guest house, home office, or other compact dwelling, often equipped with basic residential facilities. While the general purpose is residential, final requirements regarding design, safety, ventilation, and accessibility are governed by national building regulations and local planning rules.

Compared with friggebod, which is smaller (up to 15 square meters) and subject to different rules, attefallshus allows a larger footprint while still avoiding the traditional building permit process. Local municipalities retain authority to impose restrictions based on the local plan, topography, and neighborhood considerations.