What are the recent changes to applying for a Building Consent & PIM

New application forms and check sheets have been developed for use when submitting Building Consents and PIMs at the Christchurch City Council. Checksheets have been required with all applications since 01 July 2007.

Why are we doing this?
Changes to the Building Act 2004 require all Building Consent Authorities (BCA) to be accredited by 31 March 2009 in order to be permitted to continue to issue Building Consents. Christchurch City Council’s building forms and procedures have been adapted to ensure our application for accreditation meets the standards required.

These changes are intended to promote a clearer understanding of the documentation required with each application. This will enable consistency across Service Centres and correct application forms for Building Consent Officers to vet for compliance.

This will lead to more efficient processing and reduced processing times.

How long will it take?
We expect to spend approximately 30 minutes at the counter with the applicant checking that the relevant forms have been accurately completed on simple projects and up to 1 hour on complex projects.

Please note Christchurch City Council would not be able to vet applications by 5.00 pm, if they are received after 4.00 pm.

In the future we hope to reward regular customers who consistently produce professional, high quality drawings.

How are we doing this?
There are now three application forms supported by various check sheets. The applicant will need to complete each relevant portion of the application form and associated check sheet; this will then be checked by counter staff at our main service centres before lodgement.

To ensure you have the most recent version for the application form and check sheets please download the forms each time you submit an application from the Building Web Page on the "Building Forms" link below.

B001 - Application for a Building Consent (This replaces the old BA2M form)
Only for small works as listed Solid/Liquid Fuel Burners, Backflow Preventers, Marquees and Temporary Buildings, Solar Heaters, Shade Sails, Residential Demolitions and Swimming Pool Fences

Schedule of fees

B002 - Application for Building Consent and/or Project Information Memorandum (PIM)
(This replaces the old BA2, BA2R, BA2C and in some cases the old BA2M)
For all other Building Consents and PIMs including Minor Internal Alterations, Residential Plumbing and Drainage, Garages, Sleepouts, Accessory Buildings, Residential Dwellings, Commercial and Industrial Projects.

Schedule of fees


B003 - Application for Amendment to a Building Consent
For amendments to consent documents after the consent has been issued. Not all amendments will be accepted as an amendment application. In some cases they can be of such substance or complexity that lodging a new consent application will become necessary. In these instances counter staff may engage the opinion of a Senior Building Consent Officer.

Schedule of fees


Where can I find more information?
Call our Customer Call Centre and request that one of our information packs be sent to you or check out the Building Web Page on the 'Building Information' link below.

Information Packs