Resource consents process

The District Plan sets out objectives, policies, and rules that guide development, infrastructure, and land use within our district. ​

If you want to undertake an activity on your property and the activity is not permitted by the District Plan, you will need to apply for a resource consent. ​

A resource consent may also be required if you do not comply with a rule inother relevant legislation such as a National Environmental Standard or alegacy District Plan that still has legal effect.​

It is important that your application accurately identifies all the reasons thatyour project will need resource consent.

9. Consent duration and compliance
The consent outlines conditions for the activity. Compliance with these conditions is crucial to maintain the validity of the consent. ​View more information about the resource consent process.

A good quality application starts with a good quality proposal, one that includes all relevant information and documentation required for us to process your consent smoothly. This will help to reduce confusion, delay and cost, as we do not accept applications which have missing information.​

We recommend you engage a professional (planning consultant) to prepare your application, as the requirements are technical.​

We offer pre-application advice that could save you time and money later. ​

See the District Plan for the rules in your Zone. If your property is subject to any Overlays, Precincts or other features such as flooding , there will be other rules that apply to your site. You will need to demonstrate that you comply with these or state that you are applying for consent.​

Your consent application must include an Assessment of Environmental Effects (AEE). An AEE is a written statement identifying the effects of your proposed activity on the environment, and information on how you intend to negate or mitigate these effects.

An AEE is a written statement which identifies the effects of your proposed activity or activities on the environment so we can assess the likely impact of the proposal.​

Effects on the environment that you will need to consider can be short-term or long-term, positive or negative, and may include:​

It is a good idea to start preparing your AEE as soon as possible. This will help you identify information that may be required by us. Avoid a request for more information by supplying as much information as you can.​

For large, complex projects we recommend you find an expert to help you prepare your application.​

When preparing your AEE you will need to:​

When Council assesses a resource consent application, we consider whether people may be adversely affected by the activities proposed in the application.​

If there are people that may be affected by your consent proposal, consider getting their written approval before you lodge your online application with us. When you approach people to ask for their written approval, take a copy of the information and plans you use in the proposal for them to look over.​

If you get written approval from affected parties, we will not consider the effects of your project on these people when deciding whether to notify your consent. This may mean you can avoid the need for notification and a hearing. ​

If the approval is for a Permitted Boundary Activity, please fill out Form 8B. For all other applications, please fill out Form 8A. Use of the incorrect form could delay progress of your application. ​

If you are approached by an applicant for written approval, you need to understand why they are asking for your approval, and what effects the proposed activity will have on you and your property. ​

If you do give your written approval:​

• the adverse effects on you will not be considered when we decide whether to notify the application, or to grant or decline the application​
• you can’t appeal the decision after the resource consent has been approved or issued.​

Conditional written approval cannot be accepted by Council.  There is no obligation to sign this form, and no reasons need to be given.  If signing on behalf of a trust or company, please provide additional written evidence that you have signing authority.​

If you’re unsure if you should provide written approval, you should get independent advice from a professional, e.g., a planner or lawyer.​

Read the useful guide on the Ministry for the Environment website, which outlines everything you need to know about your rights as an affected person.

To extend a lapsing period for a resource consent, you must apply to Council before the consent lapses; being five years after the date it was granted. You'll need to demonstrate that substantial progress has been made towards fulfilling the consent's conditions. ​

View the extension of a lapsing period for a resource consent application form.