District Plan
The local council's rulebook that sets out how land in the district can be used, developed, and subdivided.
What is a District Plan?
Every territorial authority (city or district council) in New Zealand is required to have a district plan under the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA). The district plan divides the district into zones and sets out the objectives, policies, and rules for land use and development in each zone.
The district plan covers matters like building heights, setbacks, site coverage, noise limits, signage, subdivision standards, earthworks, and the protection of heritage sites and notable trees. It also classifies activities as permitted, controlled, restricted discretionary, discretionary, non-complying, or prohibited — which determines whether you need resource consent and how hard it is to get.
District plans are reviewed at least every 10 years. Plan changes can occur more frequently, and these can significantly affect property values and development rights. A plan change that upzones your land (allows more intensive development) can increase its value substantially.
Most councils make their district plans available online, including the planning maps that show zoning, overlays, and designations.
Why It Matters for Due Diligence
The district plan is the primary document that determines what you can and cannot do with a property. Before buying, check the relevant zone rules to confirm the property supports your plans — whether that's a simple renovation, building a minor dwelling, or a larger development.
Also check for any proposed plan changes that could affect the property. A change in zoning or the introduction of a new overlay (such as a flood hazard area) can materially impact property values and future use.
How to Check
Access the district plan on your council's website — most have both the written rules and planning maps available online. Use the council's GIS viewer to check which zone and overlays apply to a specific property. The LIM report will also reference the relevant district plan provisions.
If you're unsure how the rules apply to your situation, most councils offer a free duty planner service where you can discuss your plans informally.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often does the district plan change?
District plans must be reviewed at least every 10 years, but councils can propose changes at any time. Plan changes go through a public submission process. You can track proposed changes on your council's website.
What if the district plan says I can't do something I want to do?
You may be able to apply for resource consent. The activity status in the plan (controlled, restricted discretionary, discretionary, or non-complying) determines how council will assess your application. Talk to a planner or the council's duty planner to understand your options.
Related Terms
Zoning
GlossaryCouncil rules that classify land into zones and control what activities and types of buildings are allowed in each area.
Resource Consent
GlossaryPermission from the local council to carry out an activity that affects the environment, required under the Resource Management Act 1991.
Unitary Plan
GlossaryAuckland's combined planning document that merges the functions of a district plan and regional plan into a single set of rules for all land and resource use.
Regional Plan
GlossaryA regional council's rules for managing natural resources including water, air, soil, and the coastal environment.
LIM Report
GlossaryA Land Information Memorandum — an official council report summarising everything the council knows about a property.
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