How to Get Building Consent in NZ: Costs, Steps & Timelines

Frank Best
How to Get Building Consent in NZ: Costs, Steps & Timelines
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How to Get Building Consent in NZ: Costs, Steps & Timelines

Planning a build in New Zealand can feel daunting: do you actually need building consent, what drawings and documents will your council expect, how much will it cost, and how long will it take? Whether you’re adding a sleepout, changing internal walls, or fitting a new roller door to a workshop, getting this wrong can mean costly delays, stop‑work notices, and headaches at sale time.

This guide gives you a clear, step‑by‑step path from checking exemptions to getting your Code Compliance Certificate (CCC). You’ll learn how to confirm if consent is required, prepare plans that demonstrate Building Code compliance, apply online with your local Building Consent Authority (BCA), understand fees and the statutory timeline, and avoid common pitfalls that trigger RFIs and push out timeframes.

We’ll start by confirming if your project needs consent or qualifies under Schedule 1, then cover your obligations even when work is exempt. From scoping, design pathways and who can carry out the work, through site information, planning rules and resource consent checks, to assembling your application, paying levies, booking inspections, managing changes, and closing out with your CCC—everything is here. There’s also a quick homeowner guide on consent for garage and roller doors, extra notes for commercial projects, realistic timelines, and links to official tools and council portals. Let’s get started.

Step 1. Confirm if your project needs building consent (or is exempt)

Before you spend a dollar on drawings, confirm whether your work needs consent or is covered by Schedule 1 exemptions under the Building Act 2004. MBIE’s “Do you need a building consent?” tool is based on these exemptions (including updates from August 2020) and covers common projects like decks, sheds, carports, pergolas, internal walls and doorways, windows and exterior doorways, plumbing alterations, minor drainage, thermal insulation, sleepouts, retaining walls, and pools. Note: all residential pools must have a compliant fence, and that fence requires a building consent. If consent is needed, apply to the Building Consent Authority (your local council) where the work is located.

  • Identify your project: Be specific about what you’re building, altering or demolishing.
  • Check exemptions first: Use MBIE’s tool and the Schedule 1 categories that match your project.
  • Confirm with your council/BCA: If in doubt or your project isn’t listed, ask the BCA.
  • Borderline cases: Discuss a discretionary exemption with council if you’re close to the rules.

Next, even if your work is exempt, you still have legal obligations.

Step 2. Know your obligations even if work is exempt

Exempt doesn’t mean “anything goes”. MBIE is clear: as the homeowner you’re responsible for deciding if your work is exempt and for ensuring the work still complies with the Building Code and other legislation. Some exemptions only apply when the work is carried out by an authorised professional (for example, specific plumbing, drainage and water‑heater tasks). If you’re unsure, discuss a discretionary exemption or next steps with your council.

  • Comply with the Building Code: Structure, fire safety, moisture/weatherproofing, durability and access still apply.
  • Meet planning rules: Building consent exemptions don’t override district plan rules—resource consent may still be needed.
  • Use authorised people where required: Certain exempt plumbing/drainage/water‑heater work must be done by an authorised tradesperson.
  • Build safely and keep records: Follow good practice; retain plans, specs, photos and receipts for future reference.

Next, lock in your scope, design pathway and who is allowed to do the work.

Step 3. Decide the scope, design pathway and who can carry out the work (LBP, RBW)

Nail down exactly what you’re building before you draw anything. Define the scope (what’s in and out), note any structural changes, cladding/weatherproofing, plumbing or drainage alterations, and any fire or access implications. Your building consent application must clearly show how the design will comply with the Building Code; simple work may be covered by standard details, while complex or structural elements often need a qualified designer or engineer. Some work is treated as restricted building work (RBW) and may require appropriately licensed people (e.g., LBPs) — check this with your council early.

  • Define the scope: Rooms, sizes, openings, materials, and what’s being altered or removed.
  • Choose your design path: Standard details for simple work; engage a designer/engineer for complex, structural or weathertight areas.
  • Identify specialists needed: Authorised plumbers/drainlayers for relevant work; discuss RBW/LBP requirements with your BCA.
  • Decide who will build: DIY or contractor — ensure capability to meet Code and keep qualification details on file.
  • Plan build stages: Align your construction sequence with typical council inspection points to avoid rework later.

Step 4. Gather property and site information (title, services, hazards, zoning)

Strong applications start with accurate site intel. Councils assess proposals in the context of your property’s legal boundaries, existing services, and any hazards. Before drawing final plans, pull together the latest ownership and site details, confirm where pipes and cables run, and note any constraints like flooding or easements. This reduces Requests for Further Information (RFIs) and helps your designer show Building Code compliance from the outset.

  • Record of Title and interests: Recent title, legal description, and any easements, covenants or building line restrictions.
  • Site plan and levels: Boundaries, existing buildings, access/drive, contours, and proposed work in context.
  • Existing services: Water, wastewater, stormwater and other utilities; note locations and connection points.
  • Natural hazards: Council‑identified flooding, coastal inundation, erosion, land instability or liquefaction areas.
  • Zoning/overlays: District plan zone and any special overlays that could affect height, setbacks or design.
  • Previous approvals: Any relevant past consents or producer statements to inform the new design.

With this picture clear, you’re ready to check planning rules and any resource consent triggers.

Step 5. Check planning rules and whether you need resource consent

Building consent and planning rules are separate. Even if your work is exempt from building consent, it still must comply with your district plan. If your proposal doesn’t meet local planning rules, you may need a resource consent from the council’s planning team. Confirm this early—planning requirements can change your design, timeframes and costs.

  • Confirm your zoning and overlays: Check the district plan maps for your property’s zone and any special overlays (e.g., coastal, heritage, natural hazards).
  • Understand activity status: Identify if your project is permitted or if it triggers restrictions that require resource consent.
  • Check site constraints: Note setbacks, site coverage, height limits, access/parking rules, and any easements or covenants on the title.
  • Talk to council planners: A quick pre‑application discussion can clarify if a resource consent is needed and what to include.

If resource consent is required, lodge it early so your building design and consent documents align. Next, assemble plans and specifications that clearly show Building Code compliance.

Step 6. Prepare plans, specifications and supporting documents that show Building Code compliance

This is where most applications rise or fall. Councils want clear, coordinated drawings and evidence that your design will meet the Building Code. Use your council’s lodgement checklist (many require it with the application) and make sure plans are to scale, fully dimensioned, and consistent across sheets. If specialists are involved (e.g., engineers, authorised plumbers/drainlayers), gather their documents early to avoid Requests for Further Information (RFIs).

  • Site plan and existing conditions: Boundaries, services, contours, and proposed works.
  • Architectural drawings: Floor plans, elevations, sections, details, door/window schedule.
  • Specifications: Materials, fixings, finishes, installation methods relevant to Code clauses.
  • Structural evidence: Calculations, details and any producer statements (e.g., PS1) from an engineer.
  • Plumbing and drainage layout: Water, wastewater and stormwater routes and connection points.
  • Weathertightness details: Flashings, junctions, claddings and roof/wall interfaces.
  • Fire and access (where applicable): Means of escape, separation, accessibility provisions.
  • Energy/insulation info: Construction R-values and insulation schedule.

Cross‑check that titles, revisions and dimensions match on every sheet, and that manufacturer data sheets align with the specifications. This level of completeness is the simplest way to speed up how to get building consent in NZ and minimise RFIs.

Step 7. Create an online account and complete your application with your council/BCA

Most councils now require online lodgement. Create an account with your local Building Consent Authority’s portal (for example: Auckland’s online system, Christchurch Online Services, Wellington’s portal, Napier’s AlphaOne, or Hutt City’s Objective Build). Have your files ready to match the council’s lodgement checklist, then work methodically through the application so names, addresses and drawings are consistent — it’s a small step that speeds up how to get building consent in NZ.

  • Register and choose application type: Residential or commercial building consent.
  • Enter property details: Address, legal description/valuation number, owner and agent contacts.
  • Describe the work and value: Scope, project location on site, estimated cost.
  • Upload documents: Lodgement checklist, plans/specs, calculations, producer statements (e.g., PS1), recent Record of Title, services info.
  • Add key people: Designer, engineer, and any LBP/authorised trades where applicable.
  • State compliance pathway: Note relevant Building Code clauses.
  • Pay fees/deposit: The portal issues an invoice; pay to submit.
  • Submit and track: Use the portal to monitor status and respond to RFIs with clearly marked revisions.

Step 8. Understand fees, levies and deposits (typical costs and how they’re calculated)

Councils (BCAs) charge on a cost‑recovery basis, so what you pay depends on the complexity and value of work, the time it takes to process, and the number of inspections. Expect to pay an initial deposit at lodgement, with the balance due before consent is issued and again at CCC if extra time or inspections were needed. Keeping your application complete and coordinated is one of the simplest ways to control costs while you work through how to get building consent in NZ.

  • Application deposit: Upfront amount to start processing; final costs are reconciled later.
  • Processing/assessment time: Charged for technical review, admin and any Requests for Further Information (RFIs).
  • Inspections: Set per site visit; re‑inspection fees apply if work isn’t ready or fails.
  • Government levies (if applicable): May apply to higher‑value projects under the Building Act.
  • Document/issuance fees: For issuing the consent and later the Code Compliance Certificate (CCC).
  • Optional PIM: If you request a Project Information Memorandum, councils may charge separately.

Tip: Ask your council for a fees schedule or estimate, and plan your build to minimise re‑visits and RFIs.

Step 9. What happens after you apply (statutory 20‑day clock, RFIs, PIMs, fast‑tracking)

Once your application is accepted for processing by your council/BCA, the statutory 20‑working‑day clock starts. Your file goes to technical officers who check plans and specs against the Building Code. If anything is unclear or missing, the council will issue a Request for Further Information (RFI). The 20‑day clock pauses while you gather a complete response; it resumes when the BCA receives everything requested. You can also request a Project Information Memorandum (PIM) for council‑held site information; it informs your design but is separate from consent. Some councils offer fast‑track pathways for straightforward, well‑documented projects.

  • Expect an initial vetting: If key documents are missing, your application may be returned before the clock starts.
  • Handle RFIs in one hit: Provide a single, complete response and clearly cloud/revise affected drawings to avoid new RFIs.
  • Keep versions tidy: Use consistent titles, dates and revision numbers across all sheets and specs.
  • Use the portal: Track status, upload responses, and check any new conditions or comments promptly.
  • PIMs help de‑risk: Request one early if you need clarity on services or hazards.
  • Ask about fast‑tracking: Eligible minor works with complete documentation may be processed faster by some councils.

When your BCA is satisfied, they’ll move to issue the consent with any conditions attached.

Step 10. Receive your building consent and understand your consent documents and conditions

Once the BCA is satisfied and any outstanding fees are paid, your consent is issued and the approved documents are released in the portal. This is your permission to build exactly what’s shown in the stamped plans and specifications, subject to any conditions. Read everything carefully now—misunderstanding the inspection schedule or conditions is a common cause of delays and extra cost.

  • Decision/consent letter: Confirms approval, consent number, and any conditions or advice notes.
  • Stamped approved plans/specs: These are the only drawings you can build to; keep them accessible on site.
  • Inspection schedule: Lists required inspections and typical hold points.
  • Conditions of consent: May set documentation or on‑site requirements you must meet during construction.
  • Scope and limitations: Confirms what was assessed; anything outside this scope needs a variation or amendment.

Build to the approved set. If you need to change something, see Step 12 on variations and amendments.

Step 11. Start work, display your consent, and book inspections at the right stages

With consent issued, you can begin construction — but only in line with the stamped plans, specifications and any conditions. Keep the approved documents available on site for council inspectors and plan your build around the inspection schedule in your consent. Book inspections early through your council’s portal or contact centre, have the right people on site, and avoid covering any work that needs to be seen. Passing first time keeps costs down and momentum up.

  • Keep consent on site: Display or keep the decision letter and stamped plans accessible for inspectors.
  • Follow the inspection schedule: Treat listed stages as hold points; don’t proceed until each is signed off.
  • Book early and be ready: Use the BCA portal; have access, safe working platforms, and someone competent to answer questions.
  • Don’t cover critical work: Foundations, framing, plumbing/drainage and insulation must be visible where inspections are required.
  • Meet any conditions: Some BCAs may require notices, documentation or producer statements during the build — check your consent letter.
  • Record everything: Keep site photos, receipts and product data to support your CCC application and future queries.
  • Control changes: If you need to deviate from the approved plans, pause and confirm the correct process before building.

If anything needs to change, move carefully — the next step explains how to manage variations without derailing your timeline.

Step 12. Manage changes during the build (minor variations vs amendments)

Changes happen on site; the key is choosing the right pathway and getting approval before you build the changed work. Councils generally distinguish between minor variations (small tweaks that don’t affect Building Code compliance or consent conditions) and amendments (material changes that need formal reassessment). If you’re unsure, stop the affected work and check with your BCA — the wrong call can cause delays and extra inspections.

  • Spot the trigger: If the change touches structure, weathertightness, fire or access provisions, or public drainage connections, it will often require an amendment — check with your council.
  • Minor variation (typical): Like‑for‑like product swaps or shifting a non‑structural opening a small amount may be recorded on marked‑up plans and approved by the inspector/processing officer. Keep clouded revisions.
  • Amendment (formal): Lodge updated drawings/specs (and any producer statements) via the portal. Pause the affected work until approved; fees and processing apply.
  • Keep versions tight: Cloud changes, update title blocks and revision dates on every sheet; align specs and schedules.
  • Reset your programme: Reconfirm inspection stages if the change affects hold points, and brief your trades.

Step 13. Close out your project and apply for your Code Compliance Certificate (CCC)

The CCC is your official sign‑off that the finished work complies with the Building Code and matches the approved consented documents. Apply through your council/BCA portal as soon as construction is complete, inspections have passed, and your close‑out paperwork is ready. Incomplete or mismatched documentation is the most common reason CCC decisions are delayed.

  • Final inspections passed: Ensure all required inspections are completed and recorded against your consent.
  • As‑built information (where applicable): For example, drainage/as‑built plans and any commissioning data.
  • Producer statements: Such as engineering PS4 construction monitoring, if your design used producer statements.
  • LBP records of work (if RBW): Provide RoW for any restricted building work completed.
  • Product and install evidence: Key warranties, manuals, data sheets and photos demonstrating compliance with the approved details.
  • Approved changes only: Include any issued amendments or documented minor variations to align the built work with the approved set.
  • Outstanding fees: Pay any remaining inspection or processing charges via the portal.

Book your final inspection, upload the full package in one go, and reference your consent number on every file. When the BCA is satisfied, they will issue the CCC—keep it with your stamped plans for future maintenance, insurance and resale.

Step 14. If work was already done without consent, apply for a Certificate of Acceptance (CoA)

If building work has been done without consent, you can’t get a consent retrospectively. Councils state you may be able to apply for a Certificate of Acceptance to show the work appears to comply with the Building Code, provided the work was carried out after 1 July 1992. If work is still underway, stop and talk to your council about the correct pathway before proceeding.

  • What you’ll need: A clear description of the work and when it was done, as‑built drawings, photos (ideally during construction), product data/warranties, receipts, and any producer statements or reports from relevant professionals (e.g., engineer, authorised plumber/drainlayer).
  • Property information: Recent Record of Title and any resource consent decisions if planning rules were triggered.
  • Inspections and opening‑up: Be prepared for invasive inspections; councils can require parts to be exposed and remedial work if compliance can’t be verified.
  • Fees and time: CoA applications attract fees and assessment/inspection charges; processing can take time and may involve RFIs.

A CoA is not the same as a CCC. It records what the council could reasonably verify at the time and helps reassure future buyers, insurers and lenders. Apply through your local council/BCA online portal.

Step 15. Typical timeframes and realistic timelines by project type

Timeframes hinge on your council’s workload, how complete your documents are, and whether planning triggers apply. Once your BCA accepts your application, the statutory 20‑working‑day clock starts; it pauses for any Requests for Further Information (RFIs) and resumes only when your full response is received. Some BCAs offer fast‑track options for straightforward, well‑documented work. If resource consent is required, secure it early as it can affect both design and timing.

  • Minor residential alterations (simple, well‑documented): Often decided in a single processing cycle with minimal inspections; CCC follows quickly when close‑out documents are complete.
  • Small standalone structures or openings (e.g., sheds, carports, new exterior doorways that need consent): Generally straightforward if plans/specs are clear; inspections are predictable.
  • Structural additions and weathertight changes: Expect more review (engineering documents) and more inspections; timelines extend with each RFI cycle.
  • Commercial/semi‑industrial doors or work affecting specified systems: Typically longer due to coordination and documentation requirements.
  • Certificate of Acceptance (CoA) for past work: Can take longer due to evidence gathering, RFIs and possible opening‑up inspections.

Plan your build to avoid RFIs—completeness is the fastest path for how to get building consent in NZ.

Step 16. Common mistakes that cause delays or extra costs — and how to avoid them

Most hold‑ups happen before anyone picks up a hammer. The fastest way to get through how to get building consent in NZ is to submit a complete, consistent package and stay disciplined through processing and on site. Use your council’s lodgement checklist, keep plans aligned, and respond to council requests once, fully, and clearly.

  • Incomplete or inconsistent documents: Cross‑check titles, scales, dimensions and specs on every sheet; include all required checklists.
  • Ignoring planning rules: Confirm zoning/overlays early; get resource consent first if triggered.
  • Weak site information: Provide a recent Record of Title, services locations and hazard notes.
  • Piecemeal RFI responses: The 20‑day clock pauses until you supply everything; reply once with clouded revisions.
  • Unapproved changes on site: Stop and seek a minor variation or amendment before building the change.
  • Starting without consent: You can’t get retrospective consent; you may need a Certificate of Acceptance instead.
  • Missing producer statements/LBP records: Line up PS1/PS4 and any Records of Work where applicable.
  • Covering work before inspection: Treat inspection stages as hold points; book early and be ready.
  • Poor version control: Update revision dates on all affected drawings and specs to match.

Step 17. Do you need consent for garage doors and roller doors? A quick homeowner guide

For many homeowners, a new garage or roller door is a straightforward swap. Whether you need building consent hinges on what’s changing: MBIE’s guidance includes “Windows and Exterior Doorways” and “General repair, maintenance and replacement of building parts” as common exemption categories, but exemptions are specific. If you’re altering structure or creating a new exterior opening, consent may be required. If you’re unsure how to get building consent in NZ for your door project, check the MBIE tool and confirm with your council/BCA.

  • Consent is likely needed when: You are creating a new exterior opening, changing the size/location of an opening, or altering structural support (e.g., lintels).
  • Work may be exempt when: You’re replacing a door in the same opening with comparable materials/components, or doing general maintenance that doesn’t affect primary structure, fire separation or specified systems.
  • If consent is required, be ready to show: Plans/elevations with opening dimensions, structural details (support/lintel, fixings), product specifications, and how compliance with the Building Code will be achieved.

Next, if your project is commercial or semi‑industrial, there are extra considerations you must factor in.

Step 18. Commercial and semi‑industrial projects: extra considerations (specified systems, compliance schedules)

Commercial and semi‑industrial door projects often interact with structure, fire safety and access in ways that require deeper documentation and coordination. If your work affects any specified systems, the council may require more evidence of compliance and can issue or update a compliance schedule with ongoing inspection and maintenance obligations. Build this into your timeline and budget when planning how to get building consent in NZ for workshops, warehouses or retail back‑of‑house areas.

  • Confirm specified systems early: Identify if doors interface with fire alarms, sprinklers, smoke control, emergency egress or access control; discuss with your BCA.
  • Provide technical evidence: Structural loads, fixings, impact/wind actions, motor specs, safety beams/interlocks, and commissioning plans.
  • Protect egress and fire separations: Show clear exit widths, hold‑open/auto‑close behaviour and any required fire‑rated assemblies.
  • Coordinate services and controls: Detail power, detectors, manual overrides and any fail‑safe modes during outages.
  • Operations and maintenance: Supply manuals and maintenance schedules; these may be referenced in a compliance schedule.
  • Construction monitoring: Expect more inspections and, where used, producer statements from engineers and relevant specialists.
  • Plan rules still apply: Check loading bays, vehicle manoeuvring, noise and signage—resource consent may be triggered on some sites.

Step 19. Useful checklists, forms and where to apply online (links to major councils and MBIE tools)

Make lodgement easier by using official checklists and applying through your BCA’s online portal. The links below go directly to government guidance, forms and application pages for major councils, plus MBIE tools to confirm exemptions and understand the building consent process.

Wrap up and next steps

You now have a practical roadmap: confirm exemptions, check planning, prepare clear plans and specs, lodge online with your BCA, manage RFIs, build to the stamped set, and close out with your CCC — or pursue a CoA if work’s already been done. Keep documents consistent, book inspections at the right stages, and treat any changes as minor variations or formal amendments before you build them.

Ready to move? Lock in your scope, gather site info and a recent title, complete your council checklist, and submit a tidy application. If your project involves a garage or roller door, we can help with measuring, product selection, and the documentation councils expect. We supply NZ‑made doors and accessories nationwide, with optional install support. Start the conversation at DoorsNZ and keep your consent and build on track.

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