The Christchurch City Council issues building and resource consents, project information memoranda (PIM) and land information memoranda (LIM).
You can access application forms and information from this website, or pick up copies at a Service Centre. Building and resource consent applications can be complex, and we recommend that you engage a professional to help with design work, drawings and specifications. See also the Department of Building and Housing’s useful publication A Beginner’s Guide to Resource and Building Consent processes.
Pre-application meetings
The best way to speed up the processing of your application is to provide everything that is needed first time. A pre-application meeting will help you understand what you need to do.
Many applications that are submitted without a pre-application meeting are incorrect or incomplete. This often happens even when applicants are familiar with the application process.
If your application is for a commercial, multi-residential, or Port Hills project, you should request a pre-application meeting. Even if your project is not one of those listed here, your project could still benefit.
Online applications preferred
All our consent documents are stored electronically. If you choose to submit a hardcopy application, you will incur an additional scanning fee.
To avoid scanning fees and minimise processing time, submit your documents online.
Building Act changes
From 1 March 2012, building work that affects the structure or weathertightness of a residential building is restricted, and must be carried out or supervised by a licensed building practitioner (LBP). Read more on the Department of Building & Housing's website builditright.govt.nz.
