Finding your way around a District Plan or applying for a resource consent can seem hard. If you’re just getting started, we can help you understand the rules that might affect what you want to do. If you’re further along we can give you advice on what to include in your resource consent application.
Give us a call on 06 370 6300 or email [email protected].
Apply for a Resource Consent
At Masterton District Council we deal with two types of resource consents; subdivision and land use consents.
- A subdivision consent is needed to divide up land or buildings for separate ownership, for example into new lots or sections, unit titles or a cross lease.
- A land use consent might be needed for doing things like extending or constructing a new building, putting up a sign or starting a business.
Key steps in the resource consent application process
- Figure out if you need a resource consent for your project.
- Apply for a resource consent. You need to include:
- An Assessment of Environmental Effects (AEE) (See further information below)
- Written approval from affected parties if applicable
- Other supporting documents (e.g. plans, site elevations, etc)
- Fee
- Once you have all the relevant information you can lodge your resource consent by dropping your application into the Councils Offices, emailing it or posting your application to: Masterton District Council, PO Box 444, Masterton.
An acknowledgement letter will be sent to say we have received your application. Within 10 working days we will decide if your consent needs notification. If your application is processed on a non-notified basis we’ll make a decision within 20 working days.
Make a Resource Consent Submission
Anyone can make a submission on a resource consent application if it has been publicly notified through the media. In cases of Limited Notification, only specifically identified affected parties are served notice and asked if they want to submit.
To make a submission, download, print and complete the Resource Consent Submission Form (PDF, 213KB)
Information to include with your submission
The required information will be included in the public notice in the newspaper and in the information sent to you by us if you are served notice.
We have to get your submission within 20 working days of the notification. The closing time and date will be in the newspaper or notification documents.
If you want to speak about your submission, you will be asked to attend a Council hearing on the application. You will need to say your name, address, and whether you are in support of or opposed to the application.
All submitters have the right to appeal our decision to the Environment Court within 15 days of receiving the decision.
FAQs
How long will it take to process my resource consent?
The Resource Management Act (RMA) gives 20 working days for a resource consent to be processed. Council can extend the timeframe under Section 37 of the RMA. Sometimes applications might be put on hold while we get more information from you. Processing will continue once you give us that information.
When can I start my activity or development?
As soon as you receive your decision, subject to meeting any conditions, you can start.
How much will my resource consent cost?
Please refer to the fees and charges page of our website.
My neighbour has asked me to sign an ‘Affected Party Approval Form’. What does this mean?
This means they want you to approve their proposal. If you give your written approval, you agree to any effects that the proposal might result in. Before you give your approval you should understand the full extent of what is proposed and the impact it might have on you.
How high can I build my fence without requiring a Resource Consent?
The Wairarapa Combined District Plan sets a 1.8m maximum for fences in the residential zone. Anything taller this will need a Resource Consent. Any fence taller than 2.5m in height also needs a Building Consent.
How do I find out the zoning for my property?
You can search your property on our Wairarapa Combined District Map viewer or you can contact anyone in the planning department.
How can I tell where my boundary is?
The Certificate of Title for a property shows the dimensions of the boundaries. There are normally survey pegs in each corner of the site. If you can’t find them you should get a surveyor to figure out where the boundary is.
Where can I get a copy of the Certificate of Title for my property?
Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) has copies of all Certificates of Title. You can contact them directly for a copy of your title, or we can provide you with one for a $25 fee.
Do I need a Resource Consent if I am putting a relocated building on my site?
Yes – all relocated buildings need a resource consent. Check out our resources section of the website for further detail around the resource and building consent requirements.
My neighbour’s trees are extending onto my property and blocking sun, what can I do?
The Wairarapa Combined District Plan doesn’t have any rules about trees. If you have concerns about trees on your property boundary you should talk to your neighbour about it, or seek legal advice. The Wairarapa Community Law Centre can provide free legal advice if you need it.
How close to the boundary can I build?
The minimum building setbacks can be found in the Wairarapa Combined District Plan. For rural setbacks check Rule 4.5.2 and for residential setbacks check Rule 5.5.2.