A building consent is the formal approval issued by a building consent authority (BCA) stating that certain works, if properly constructed in accordance with the plans and specifications, will comply with the New Zealand Building Act, the Building Code and all other applicable regulations under the Building Act specific to buildings.

You cannot undertake any building work which requires a building consent or any other type of consent without this approval. Most building work requires a consent but some minor work is exempt under Schedule 1 of the Act.

Exemption guidance for Schedule 1 of the Building Act 2004.

You can also use this handy tool to help determine whether you need a building consent.

Can I build It?