Building consent – when you need one and how to get one

A building consent is required for most building work.  This page tells you when and how to get one and explains the process.

What is a building consent?
Building consent is approval from the Council for building work to be done at a specific site.  It ensures that the work is structurally sound, plumbing and drainage is sanitary and that minimum fire standards have been met. 

Work carried out without a building consent is illegal and could put people or your property at risk.  It could also affect your insurance cover or property sale negotiations.  

When do you need a building consent? 
Building consent is required for most building work, for example:
•  New buildings and alterations/extensions to existing buildings.
•  Swimming pools – removing an inground pool or installing a swimming/spa/paddling pool with a depth of 400mm or more.  This includes alterations to a swimming pool.
•  Retaining walls, garages and carports.
•  Some decks and fences.
•  Plumbing and drainage work.
•  Heating (including fire places), ventilation and air conditioning systems.
•  Demolition work.
•  Relocation or change of use of buildings.
•  Replacing a roof with a different material than what is currently there.
•  Locating your hot water cylinder in another position.
•  Some shade sails.
•  Solar panels.

Some work is exempt from needing a building consent.  If you are unsure, please contact a duty planner at Lakes Environmental, phone 03 450 0300 (Queenstown) or 03 443 0006 (Wanaka) or email enquiries@lakesenv.co.nz

How to get a building consent
Please complete the application form in full and provide all of the necessary associated information. 
>> Building consent application forms (external link)  

Submit your application to Lakes Environmental, Private Bag 50077, Queenstown 9348. 

How much will it cost?
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