The Council's Building Consenting Unit is open for business throughout Christmas and New Year. The statutory clock is on hold from 20 December 2025 to 10 January 2026.
Apply for a building consent with Online Services
Exemptions from building consent and resource consent for small standalone dwellings/minor residential units (Granny Flat) will commence on 15 January 2026.
Further information regarding the building consent exemption can be found on the MBIE website(external link).
The planning regulations can found on the New Zealand Legislation site(external link).
You must receive a project information memorandum (PIM) for the non-consented small standalone dwelling (Granny Flat) before you start building work and a PIM cannot be applied for until 15 January 2026. Please do not use our current project information memorandum online form to apply for a granny flat exemption, the new application form will be available on 15 January 2026.
Before submitting an application check you have met all the exemption criteria - Building design conditions checklist(external link).
Make sure all the actions required by the exemption have been carried out - Granny flats exemption: completion checklist(external link).
You must meet all the characteristics and requirement set out under schedule 1A of the Building Act for the dwelling to be exempt. Failure to meet the characteristics and requirement of the exemption may result in enforcement.
Planning your project
Working with you is vital for a successful building project. We can will help you plan your building project.
Forms, guides and fees
Forms, guides and fees for building consents applications, building inspections, Building Act compliance and more.
Apply for consent
We're here to help make sure you meet legal requirements and get through the building consent process.
Processing applications
Applications can be complex. We can guide you through the process and help you avoid delays in receiving your consent.
Inspecting your work
Once inspected, you'll have assurance that your building work complies with the building consent.
Certifying your work
You must apply for a code compliance certificate after all work carried out under the building consent is complete.
