Building work that does not require a building consent

Find out what building work is exempt from needing a building consent and how to apply for an exemption.

How it works

There are many building projects that don’t require a building consent and others where Council’s building team has the discretion to exempt  the building work from the need to get a building consent.  These exemptions have changed over time and are not retrospective. You can find information from the Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment (MBIE) about building work exempt from requiring a consent.

This discretionary exemption can be issued on the basis of:

  • the completed building work is likely to comply with the building code; or
  • if the completed building work does not comply with the building code, it is unlikely to endanger people or any building, whether on the same land or on other property.

Need a hand determining if you need a building consent? Try this ‘Can I Build It?’ tool.

Before you apply

Building and Planning Technicians are available at the 30 Laings Rd counter without an appointment. Come in and talk to us before applying. We'll talk it through, let you know if you also need a resource consent and advise you on the next steps.

For commercial projects, we highly recommend having a pre-application meeting with us.

Book a pre-application meeting.

Guidance: Building work that does not require a building consent.

How to apply for an exemption

You can apply for discretionary exemption from a building consent under Schedule 1 – Territorial and regional authority discretionary exemptions. You can apply online through our submissions portal with a completed application form and accompanying documentation.

Apply online

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