Why Do I Need Resource Consents When Subdividing Land?

Subdivisions are complicated undertakings that can affect other people and the environment. By having set rules are regulations, your local or district council can make sure any subdivision’s impact is being carefully considered. It’s best to work with a land development specialist who understands the consenting process.

Here’s everything you need to know about the important role of resource consents.

What is a resource consent?

A resource consent is official approval allowing you to do something that will permanently change the land. It needs to be granted before many activities, including new buildings and subdivisions. Resource consents fall under the Resource Management Act and are lodged with your regional and city or district council, depending where you live.

Why do I need one?

By the very nature of the project, any land subdivision will affect the land in some way. Your plans could be a very minimal change that only affects your land. Or it could change the appearance in your neighbourhood. Or it could impact the environment.

A resource consent is granted when the subdivision will not negatively affect the environment or local people.

Protect the environment

Before you can begin to build, you must prove that your subdivision will not negatively impact the land, water, air or soil. You need to be committed to doing your work as responsibly and as sustainably as possible.

Start by looking out for any environmental concerns. Once identified, consider ways to lessen or mitigate any negative effect.

Consider your neighbours

While you are excited about your subdivision plans, people in your local community might not be so keen. Perhaps they’re concerned about smaller sections, increased noise, or blocked views. It’s important to consider how your plans will affect your neighbours and highlight this in your resource consent.

If a neighbour is likely to be affected, it can be helpful to include written approval that they are aware and okay with your subdivision plans.

How to get started on your resource consent

Your best bet is to work with a land surveyor who understands the resource consenting process and has expertise in lodging applications. Your chances of ticking all your boxes and including all the relevant information is much higher when a professional applies on your behalf.

Approval

If you are granted a resource consent, you’ll be informed about the approval as well as any conditions for your subdivision activity. You usually have five years to complete the work before your resource consent lapses.

Speak to a land development specialist

If you are subdividing land in Wellington, Porirua, Levin or the Kapiti Coast, the team at Tararua Land Surveyors knows the consenting process inside out.