Exempt building work

There are some instances of building work that are exempt from needing a building consent. Projects that usually don't require building consent can include general repair and maintenance, or projects that could be considered low risk, so long as the building's structure or fire safety aren't compromised.

A discretionary exemption may be applied where the work is considered close to that of an existing exemption but does not necessarily meet the exemption criteria in its own right.

Before carrying out any exempt work, please review the government guidance:

Building work that doesn't need a building consent.

We also recommend that you come into Council or contact a Building Officer to confirm your proposed work will be exempt. There are a number of checks that should be carried out before commencing any exempt work including locating existing services, easements, power and gas lines etc.

Please be aware that the Planning rules of the District Plan still apply such as separation distance from boundaries, height, site coverage and onsite amenity. We strongly advise that a site plan and elevations are submitted to us, so we can confirm compliance with planning rules and keep a record of any exempt work that is undertaken on your property.

Exempt building work is not assessed or inspected by Council and it's the owner's responsibility to ensure that work is exempt by seeking advice from a suitably competent person. For Council to log exempt building work on a public property file as a public record, you need to complete a record of exempt building work.

Record of exempt building work form(PDF, 188KB)

Commercial building owners and people undertaking more complex projects will likely need to apply for a building work exemption [please log in and follow the instructions].

Alternatively, complete and return the form below, along with the accompanying documents. If you have any questions, please contact us.

Building work exemption application form(PDF, 26KB)