Resource Consents FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Resouce Consents - what they are, whether you need one and how to go about it.

What is a Resource Consent?

A Resource Consent is the Council's permission to carry out an activity which may have an impact on the environment. Resource Consents should not be confused with Building Consents, which involve buildings and structures - you may need both depending on your project.

The Hastings District Plan divides the district into zones and specifies what sorts of activities are permitted, may be permitted or are not permitted in each zone. Activities which 'may be' permitted will require a resource consent from Hastings District Council.

When the council considers your application for resource consent, it follows the processes set out in the Resource Management Act.

Do I need a resource consent?

Whether you’ll need a resource consent, and what type of consent you’ll need, depends on the type of activity you want to do and what rules apply to your proposal in the Hastings District Plan.

Every day, people apply to the Council for a resource consent to do something such as build a new house or garage, subdivide their property, discharge wastewater into a stream, move earth or discharge pollution into the air.

Before you start any activity that might affect your neighbours, your wider community, or your environment, you should contact the Council on 871 5000.

An Environmental Planner can tell you whether you need to apply for a resource consent.

Activities can be:

• Permitted - no consent required
• Controlled, restricted discretionary, discretionary or non-complying - consent is required.
  The council must grant consent for a controlled activity, but can refuse to grant a resource consent for a restricted discretionary, discretionary or non-complying activity.
• Prohibited - consent cannot be granted.

Are there different types of resource consent?

Hastings District Council deals with two types of resource consent:

A subdivision consent is required to legally divide land or buildings for separate ownership, such as new lots or sections (fee simple or a boundary adjustment), unit title, cross lease, or company lease.

A land use consent is required if your building project or land use activity does not comply with the planning standards in the Hastings District Plan. There are two options - you can either amend your proposal to comply with the planning standards, or you may choose to apply for a land use consent.

Please note: If any building work is necessary (see the Building section), chances are you will also need to obtain a building consent under the Building Act. While the Resource Management Act is concerned with keeping the environment a pleasant place to live, work and play, the Building Act is more focused on whether buildings are healthy and safe places, for example, are they structurally sound with sufficient ventilation and adequate drainage.

How do I apply for a resource consent?

Your first step should be to speak to an Environmental Planner at the Council on 871 5000.

A more detailed description of the process can be found on the 'Applying for Resource Consent' page.