Does a retaining wall need a resource consent?

A retaining wall needs a resource consent if the following applies:

• your retaining wall is greater than 2 metres in height above ground level and does not meet the zone rules for Major Structures.
• you want to build a fence on top of your retaining wall (or within 1 metre of it) and the total height of the retaining wall and fence above ground exceeds 2 metres, and the zone rules for Major Structures are not met.

If your property is within the Coastal Environment, High Natural Character Area or Outstanding Natural Character Area, the earthworks to build your retaining wall may also require a resource consent.

These rules can be found in the Coastal Environment Chapter of the District Plan under Part 2 District Wide Matters of our ePlan.

Whangārei ePlan Coastal Environment Chapter

Find your property zone

There may be other site-specific circumstances where works associated with building a retaining wall require a resource consent.

Your retaining wall may also require a building consent.