If you’re planning a renovation, extension, or new build on your property, you’ve probably heard terms like building consent and resource consent thrown around. But what do they really mean, and which one do you need?
Understanding the difference is crucial to avoid delays, fines—or worse, having to undo your hard work. Here’s a breakdown to help you navigate the process with confidence.
What is Building Consent?
Think of building consent as permission to carry out construction work that’s safe, durable, and meets the standards set out in the Building Act 2004.
Why You Might Need It:
- You’re building a new home or a garage.
- You’re renovating your kitchen and moving plumbing.
- You’re adding a deck, carport, or extra room.
- You’re altering load-bearing structures or roofing.
What It Covers:
- The structure itself—how it’s built.
- Safety, durability, and health standards for occupants.
- Compliance with the New Zealand Building Code.
Who Issues It:
Your local council, acting as a Building Consent Authority (BCA).
What’s Involved:
- Submitting detailed architectural plans and specifications.
- Going through a technical review by the council.
- Undergoing regular inspections during and after construction.
Tip: Most significant building work requires a building consent—even if you own the land.
What is Resource Consent?
Resource consent is all about making sure your project fits within the environmental and land-use rules under the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA).
Why You Might Need It:
- Your build affects a floodplain, native bush, or coastline.
- You want to cut down protected trees or alter land contours.
- Your development doesn’t meet the rules in your local district plan (e.g. height restrictions or boundary setbacks).
- You’re subdividing land or increasing housing density.
What It Covers:
- The impact of your project on the environment, neighbours, and local infrastructure.
- Use of land, air, water, and other natural resources.
Who Issues It:
Your local council, through their planning or environmental team.
What’s Involved:
- Submitting an application describing your project and how you’ll manage any environmental effects.
- In some cases, public notification or consultation with neighbours may be required.
- Your project may need to meet specific conditions if consent is granted.
Tip: Even if your plans meet building standards, you can’t start work if you haven’t secured the necessary resource consents.
How the Two Work Together
Many projects will need both consents—but they serve very different purposes:
| Building Consent | Resource Consent |
| Focuses on how you build | Focuses on what you build and where |
| Ensures safety, durability, and compliance with the Building Code | Ensures compliance with environmental and land-use rules |
| Issued by the BCA (council) | Issued by the planning/environmental team |
| Required for structural work | Required when environmental rules are breached or triggered |
| Involves technical inspections | May involve public notification or iwi consultation |
Important: You usually need to get resource consent first, if required, before applying for building consent.
Final Thoughts for Kiwi Homeowners
If you’re starting a building project—whether it’s a new home, a granny flat, or just adding a deck—it pays to check with your local council early. They’ll tell you:
- If your project needs one or both consents,
- What plans and reports are required,
- And how long the process might take.
Trying to skip these steps can be costly—both in time and money. But with the right advice and planning, the process can be smooth and straightforward.
