Planning an event with a large marquee or stage? You might need a building consent from Hutt City Council. This guide gives you the basics in plain language to get started.
What is a Building Consent?
A building consent is official approval to make sure that temporary structures at your event—like stages or marquees—are safe, secure, and meet the Building Code.
Even if the structure is only there for a few days, you may still need consent.
When do you need a Building Consent?
You probably will need a building consent if your event includes:
- A tent, marquee or similar lightweight structure that is over 100 square metres in size or erected for more than one month.
- A stage, platform, walkway, grandstand/bleacher seating, etc over 1.5m high.
- Lighting/PA/camera towers, stage gantries, stage screens/walls, fencing, or similar temporary event supporting structures over 2.5m high. For these cases we will typically require a Discretionary Exemption from getting a Building Consent rather than applying for a full Building Consent.
What’s involved?
- Talk to Council early
Start planning at least 2–3 months in advance, especially if your event is large or complex. - Get help from a professional
You may need a qualified engineer or designer to prepare the consent plans for the structure. Your supplier may already have someone who does this. - Apply for a Discretionary Exemption from Building Consent
Apply at our website link here:
Building work that does not require a building consent | Hutt City Council
This involves:
- Site plan and layout
- Structural details
- Fire safety and exits
- Wind load and tie-down information (for marquees especially)
- A fee (varies depending on the structure)
Wait for Approval - processing can take around 20 working days, sometimes longer if more information is needed.
Quick Tips
- Marquees over 100m²? Apply early.
- Talk to your marquee or stage supplier—they might already have plans ready to use.
- Don’t set up without an approved exemption from consent (or a Building Consent)
- Keep all paperwork handy—Council might ask for it at the event.
Want to check if you need one?
Contact the Hutt City Council Building Team:
- Email: building@huttcity.govt.nz
- Phone: 04 570 6666
Just let them know what you’re planning and they’ll help you figure it out.