Building

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Building

This section contains information and advice on what’s required for building projects. If you know the form you need you may find it easier to go straight to the forms page in the Council Documents section.

• Changes to the Building Act

Unless you are a regular applicant who is very familiar with the building rules and regulations we recommend you contact us for guidance on your particular project. This is to make sure that your project proceeds in an orderly manner without frustrating and possibly expensive delays.

Most building work requires a building consent. Sometimes a building consent triggers the need to upgrade the strength of a building, escape from fire or to improve access for disabled people.

If the building or the activity carried out within the building does not meet a District Plan rule then a resource consent will be required as well. Rules also apply to the design and location of vehicle entrances,  the design of car parking, siting relative to notable trees and heritage or cultural sites, signage, earthworks, noise and subdivision.

There are also licensing requirements that apply to food preparation, hairdressers and the sale of liquor and the occupation of Council land such as streets.

For specific changes to the Building Act please visit the Department of Building and Housing website.

• Forms
• Resource consents
• Good neighbour guide

Changes to the Building Act

Information about changes to the Building Act from 1 March 2012.

The Building Consent Process

Everything you need to know about the building process from the application process through to certifying your work.

Before You Start

Work out what you need to apply for and include in your plans.

Residential Building Consents

The what, where and how for residential building projects including information about installing fires and fencing swimming pools.

Commercial Building Consents

Rules, regulations and advice for commercial building projects.

Plumbing and Drainage

How to find, protect and build near pipes.

Demolition, Removal or Relocation

Building and resource consents are needed before you remove or demolish a building. Find out more here.

Unpermitted or Unrecorded Building Work

Where do you stand with unpermitted or unrecorded building work.

Outstanding Building Consents

Make sure you let us know where your building project is at.

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to the most commonly asked building-related questions.

The Numbers

Work out the fees and costs of a building consent and see the monthly building statistics.