This page contains information on how to apply for a building consent including timeframes, information you will need to supply and links to the guidance notes and application form.
Updated:
23/04/2012 4:21 p.m.
How do I apply for a building consent?
To apply for a building consent you must complete the application form and attach any required supporting information.
Supporting information can include:
- plans
- specifications
- proof of ownership
- engineers drawings and calculations
- the type, location and maintenance requirements for any specified systems that will be added, removed or affected by the project.
The notes of guidance provided with the application form will help you with this.
It is important that the application form is fully completed and all necessary supporting information is attached before you submit it to us. Our Customer Services staff will undertake a vetting check of all new applications and incomplete applications will not be accepted.
The process of preparing documentation to support an application for a building consent can be extremely technical. We recommend that you seek the advice and guidance of a design professional or builder if you have any concerns about your ability to undertake this task.
If your project is particularly large or complex you may benefit from holding a pre-lodgement meeting with our building staff . This will make sure that any particular areas requiring further clarification can be discussed and resolved before the application for building consent is submitted. If you feel this will help, please contact our duty building inspector on +64 9 430 4200.
Building Consent Application Form [260kb]
Project Information Memorandum
You may wish to apply for a Project Information Memorandum (PIM) which will give you important information about the site that is relevant to your project.
For information about Project Information Memoranda, follow the link below.
Property Information
How long does it take to get a building consent?
Council has 20 working days to grant a building consent from the date that the application is accepted by our Customer Services team. However, if your application contains a National Multiple Use Approval (multiproof), that time is reduced to 10 working days.
During this time, our Building Officers will assess the plans and specifications to ensure they comply with the Building Code and may request further information from you. If further information is requested, the processing clock will stop and your application will be suspended until you submit the required information.
For further information about the National Multiple Use Approval follow the link below.
National Multiple Use Approval (Department of Building and Housing website) Opens in a new window.
How much will it cost?
Council has established a schedule of fees and charges for building consents but actual costs will vary dependent on the size and nature of the project, the number of inspections required and the quality of the supporting information supplied with the application.
Follow the link below to read our Schedule of Fees and Charges.
Fees and Charges
Contact us
Contact details below for sending or delivering your completed application. If you have any doubts or questions about the application process, please contact one of our Customer Service Centres for help.
Council offices - locations and hours of opening