Resource Consent
Permission from the local council to carry out an activity that affects the environment, required under the Resource Management Act 1991.
What is a Resource Consent?
Resource consent is required for activities that the district or regional plan doesn't allow as of right — known as 'permitted activities'. Common triggers include subdivisions, land use changes, building in sensitive areas, earthworks beyond certain thresholds, and discharges to air or water.
There are five types of resource consent: land use consent, subdivision consent, coastal permit, water permit, and discharge permit. Most property buyers will encounter land use and subdivision consents.
Resource consents may come with conditions that ongoing owners must comply with. For example, a consent for a subdivision may require ongoing maintenance of stormwater infrastructure.
Why It Matters for Due Diligence
Check the LIM report for any resource consents affecting the property. Review the conditions — you may inherit ongoing obligations. Also check whether any planned changes to the property would require resource consent.
Unauthorised activities (work done without required resource consent) can result in enforcement action from the council, including abatement notices and fines.
How to Check
The LIM report lists resource consents affecting the property. Your council's online planning portal may also have resource consent records. Your lawyer should review any consent conditions that carry ongoing obligations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does resource consent cost?
Costs vary widely depending on the type and complexity. A simple land use consent might cost $2,000-$5,000 in council fees plus consultant costs. A complex subdivision can cost $20,000-$50,000+.
How long does resource consent take?
Non-notified consents typically take 20 working days. Notified consents (where neighbours and the public can submit) take much longer — often 6-12 months or more.
Related Terms
LIM Report
GlossaryA Land Information Memorandum — an official council report summarising everything the council knows about a property.
Code Compliance Certificate (CCC)
GlossaryAn official council certificate confirming that completed building work meets the requirements of the building consent and the Building Code.
Covenant
GlossaryA legally binding restriction or obligation attached to a property's title that controls how the land can be used.
Easement
GlossaryA legal right allowing someone to use part of another person's land for a specific purpose.
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