An application for (an exemption from building) consent is required for small signs that are less than 2m2 in area and if freestanding, are less than 4m to the top of the sign from the ground.
Signs that exceed the above limitations will require a standard building consent application (B-002R or B-002C).
Please note that while small signs are exempt from the need for a building consent, the sign may not comply with City Planning requirements and may require a resource consent.
Note 1: Signs face fixed to a wall, that do not project more than 300 mm from the wall, have been globally exempt from the need to obtain a building consent by the Christchurch City Council and no application is necessary. This decision is based on section (k)(i) of the first schedule of the Building Act 2004. While the sign is exempt from the need for a building consent, the sign may not comply with City Plan requirements and advice from a planner should be sought. Further, A resource consent may be required.
Note 2: Signs painted directly onto a building no longer require formal application from Christchurch City Council. However advice from a planner should be sought as the sign may not comply the City Plan requirements and may require a resource consent.
The sign permit application form has been replaced with the Application for an exemption from building consent (Form B-004). Please complete both the application form and processing checksheet which combines both building and planning matters.
Complete and print your form:
Form B-004 application [DOC 622KB]
Form B-004 application [PDF 199KB]
Small Sign Exemption Application Checksheet and Processing Sheet (Form B-044) [PDF 163KB]
Once processed the approval will be issued and sent out to the applicant, accompanied by a Compliance Checklist (Form B-453) which is to be returned once the sign is installed as evidence of completion. No Code Compliance Certificate is issued for these applications.
Under the Banks Peninsula District Plan
Most signage is permitted subject to meeting standards in Chapter 34. Consult a planner at the Lyttelton Service Centre if the wording of the Plan is unclear.
The Christchurch City Council Public Places Bylaw 2008 and Banks Peninsula District Council Public Places and Signs Bylaw 2004 may also apply.
