If you want to develop your land or buildings in the Kawerau District, it’s essential that you check with us to see if you need resource consent. Council planners will help you understand the resource consent process and advise what types of consents you need.
Resource consent processes are governed by the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA). The RMA is about the sustainable management of resources.
When Councils process a resource consent application, they must consider the effects of the proposal on the environment. This includes impacts on people as well as the physical and natural environment.
Note: if you are applying for a resource consent, consult the District Plan. If you have any questions, contact us.
District and regional plans
The RMA requires that district and regional councils prepare a District or Regional Plan. These documents set out the rules for development and the use of resources in the area.
Kawerau District Council’s District Plan controls how land and water is used, including rules on noise, earthworks, building, land use practices and subdivision.
The Bay of Plenty Regional Council controls other activities, such as the taking and discharge of water, and discharges to air and land. It also manages the coastal marine area in conjunction with the Department of Conservation. In some cases, developments need resource consent from both the Regional Council and the District Council.
Agreement of affected parties
Council will identify parties likely to be affected by your proposal.
As an applicant, you should give an affected party as much information as possible to help them make a decision on whether to give their written consent or not.
Land use consents
Land use consent is a type of resource consent. You will need land use consent if you want to use your land for something that isn’t allowed by a rule in the District Plan - for example, building a garage along the front boundary of your property.
Zoning
Zoning is the method planners use to indicate how different types of land or areas can be used. There are different sets of rules for each zone. For example, a dwelling is a permitted activity in a residential zone, but a business activity is not.
Call us on 07 306 9009 to talk to a planner about the rules that apply in your zone and whether you need to apply for consent.