Project Information Memorandum (PIM)
An official council report that outlines the building requirements, restrictions, and relevant information for a specific site before you start a building project.
What is a Project Information Memorandum (PIM)?
A Project Information Memorandum (PIM) is issued by your local council under the Building Act 2004. It sets out everything the council knows that is relevant to your proposed building work on a particular site — including zoning rules, special land features, heritage overlays, natural hazard zones, required infrastructure, and any other matters that could affect your build.
A PIM is particularly valuable when you're buying a property with plans to renovate or build new. It essentially gives you a heads-up on what the council will expect before you invest in detailed architectural plans. For example, a PIM might reveal that your site sits in a flood management area requiring a minimum floor level, or that a designation runs across the property for a future road.
While a PIM is not mandatory, it's strongly recommended before lodging a building consent. It can save you significant time and money by identifying issues early. Most councils process PIMs within 20 working days, and fees typically range from $300 to $600.
Note that a PIM is different from a LIM. A LIM covers what the council knows about the property in general, while a PIM is specific to a proposed building project and focuses on what you need to know before designing and consenting your build.
Why It Matters for Due Diligence
If you're buying a property with plans to build, extend, or significantly renovate, a PIM can reveal whether your plans are feasible before you commit. It may uncover setback requirements, height restrictions, or infrastructure obligations that make your project more expensive — or even impractical.
While buyers more commonly rely on a LIM during the purchase process, requesting a PIM (or making your offer conditional on a satisfactory PIM) is smart if your purchase decision hinges on being able to do specific building work on the site.
How to Check
Apply for a PIM through your local council, providing details of the site and your proposed building work. Most councils offer online application forms. You can also ask your architect or designer to apply on your behalf.
The council must issue the PIM within 20 working days. Fees vary by council but typically range from $300 to $600.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a PIM and a LIM?
A LIM covers everything the council knows about a property in general — consents, zoning, hazards, rates. A PIM is specific to a proposed building project and tells you what the council will require for that particular build. You'd typically get a LIM when buying and a PIM when planning to build.
Do I need a PIM before applying for building consent?
A PIM is not legally required, but it's strongly recommended. It identifies site-specific issues early, which can save you from expensive redesigns after lodging your building consent application.
Related Terms
LIM Report
GlossaryA Land Information Memorandum — an official council report summarising everything the council knows about a property.
Building Consent
GlossaryOfficial council approval required before you can carry out most building work in New Zealand.
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.
Code Compliance Certificate (CCC)
GlossaryAn official council certificate confirming that completed building work meets the requirements of the building consent and the Building Code.
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