To apply for a resource consent or other resource management application you (or your agent) will need to complete an application form and provide all the necessary supporting information.

Refer to Preparing your application to check you have all the supporting information before you submit an application.

Lodgement methods

Applications can be:

The best method of applying for resource consent is using our Online Services web portal. You can upload your documents directly. Please read Your guide to submitting a Resource Consent application via Online Services [PDF, 2.2 MB] before you start.

Payment of fees

Processing of applications does not commence until the required fee or deposit is paid (except where the applicant has a credit arrangement with the Council). After the application has been submitted an invoice will be emailed to you with information about payment methods.

Acknowledgement and acceptance check

You (or your agent) will be advised by email when your application has been received, and you will also be contacted by the planner who will process your application.

Applications are checked for completeness before they are accepted for processing. Incomplete applications are not accepted and need to be resubmitted with all of the necessary information. If your application is incomplete we will contact you within 10 working days to let you know what is missing.

The statutory processing time frame does not start until a complete application is submitted.

After an application is accepted, the Council may also request further information during processing of the application if it is needed to fully understand the proposal and the environmental effects it may generate.

Statutory processing timeframes

The time frame for the Council to issue a decision on a resource consent application is:

  • Fast-track application for a controlled activity land use consent – 10 working days
  • Other non-notified application – 20 working days (or 50 if a hearing is held)
  • Limited notified application – 100 working days (approximately 4½ months)
  • Publicly notified application – 130 working days (approximately 6 months).

If no hearing is required the time frame for notified applications is shortened.

The statutory processing clock stops if the Council needs to request further information, and restarts again when the information is provided.

Building consent requirements

If your project involves building work or change of use of a building then you are likely to also need to obtain a building consent under the Building Act 2004.