If you're planning a new building or alterations project in the Whakatāne District, you may need a building consent from the Whakatāne District Council. It’s a good idea to read the information in this section or to call us early on, in case you also need to apply for other consents or permits.
Note: if you are applying for a building consent, consult the District Plan. If you have any questions, contact a Duty Planner on 07 306 0500 extension 7473.
Changes to Schedule One of the Building Act 2004 (August 31st 2020)
From 31 August 2020 The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) extended the work that can be carried out under Schedule 1 of the Building Act. Some of the key changes are around single-storey detached buildings not exceeding 30sq metres, windows and doors, porches and pergolas carports and pole sheds.
Read MBIE’s guidance on building work that does not require a building consent - (PDF, 8.9 MB)
Building work that falls within the new criteria must still comply with the District Plan and any other required legislation. We recommend you contact our Building Team and Planning Team to discuss your project.
We also recommend you apply for an 'exempt building consent' to keep a record of the plans on the property file. Our planning team will also check it complies with the District Plan Rule.
Our Building Team will not check the building work, it is the responsibility of the homeowner and builder to ensure compliance with the building code and other legislation.
Building Code Standards
The New Zealand Building Code sets out standards for building construction, including structural integrity, weather tightness, durability, drainage and water supply. When considering building consent applications, the Council ensures that both the proposed and the completed building work meets the provisions of the Building Code.
Building Consent and the District Plan
A building consent allows you to carry out building activities in accordance with the consent and any associated plans and specifications. It doesn’t give any form of planning approval under the District Plan.
It is your responsibility to find out whether your building proposal complies with the District Plan; contact the Council or your own planning advisor.
You may need resource consent(s) in addition to your building consent. You are strongly advised to get the necessary resource consent before seeking a building consent, to avoid expensive changes to your proposal.
Benefits of getting a Building Consent
Getting building consent ensures your building complies with the quality and safety standards of the Building Code, but it also protects you in other ways.
Selling
When you sell your house, the prospective buyer will probably request a Land Information Memorandum (LIM) on your property. The LIM shows all permits and building consents issued for your property. The prospective purchaser may ask that you bring unpermitted works up to Building Code standard before completing the sale.
Insurance
There may be insurance implications where damage results from unpermitted building, plumbing or drainage works.