Delays in processing timeframes and Planning advice
Please be aware that due to a continuing surge in Resource Consent applications and Planning queries, and because of the current high workload, there will be time delays across a range of our services.
The statutory timeframes for processing and issuing Resource Consents within 10-20 working days will be impacted and we ask for your patience during these busy times. You will be notified if a s. 37 extension for processing times is required.
Due to time pressures associated with processing, it is likely that responses for enquiries will also be delayed.
We are working hard to secure support from external services in order for us to expedite applications.
We are currently recruiting for more staff, but due to the fact many other councils are experiencing similar issues, this is proving a challenge.
We ask for your patience during this time and please help us to help you by making sure when you submit applications they are as complete and detailed as possible to avoid further delays with requests for more information.
Thank you for your co-operation and please bear with us while we work through these nationwide issues.
A resource consent is a formal approval under the Resource Management Act 1991 that is required when a proposed building or activity does not comply with all of the relevant rules in a District Plan.
The District Plan can be viewed online or at the Westland District Council offices, during normal working hours.
The rules ensure that buildings and other activities within a zone are in keeping with the surrounding or planned environment and provide a reasonable level of amenity for neighbours. They specify limits and requirements for matters such as:
- building size and location
- permitted types of activity
- parking and traffic
- minimum section sizes.
Resource consent applications can be complex. We recommend speaking to one of our Planners before you start.
The Ministry for the Environment has provided a series of publications on everyday matters relating to the Resource Management Act 1991 and resource consent processes.
The guides can be viewed at http://www.mfe.govt.nz/rma/processes-and-how-get-involved/everyday-guide-rma.
If you are intending to subdivide, build or change the current activity on your property, you may require resource consent to do so.
If you wish to undertake a rezone of your property or make changes to provisions in the District Plan, a plan change application will be required. Information on how to gain approval for your activity can be found by clicking on the relevant links below. Some activities may also require resource consent from the West Coast Regional Council, please contact our planning team at planning@westlanddc.govt.nz if you have any queries.
A resource consent is separate to a building consent which confirms that building work complies with the Building Act 2004 and the building code. You may need one or both types of consent for your proposal.
Te Tai Poutini One District Plan
In 2018 the Local Government Commission directed Westland, Buller and Grey District Councils to develop a combined District Plan, with the statutory function transferred to the West Coast Regional Council. This means that, rather than each of the three District Councils preparing individual plans, Te Tai o Poutini Plan Committee is now responsible for preparing and approving a new combined district plan covering the whole of the West Coast.
For more information and updates see the TTPP website.
Compliance Monitoring
RMA Compliance & Enforcement Policy is available here
Phone calls
If you do not reach the duty planner by phone on 03 756 9099 please leave a message. Messages will be responded to within 48 hours during the times that a duty planner is available.
Emails
If you send a query to planning@westlanddc.govt.nz you will receive a response within 48 hours during the times that a duty planner is available.
We have a range of helpful brochures available below to help you along with the process. You can also always contact us with any queries.
Brochure – Rural Dwellings
Brochure – Subdivision
Brochure – AEE (Assessment of Environmental Effects)
The following application forms for Resource Consent are available:
Resource Consent Application Form and AEE – (Land Use – General)
Resource Consent Application Form and AEE – (Boundary Activity)
Resource Consent Application Form and AEE – (Marginal – Temporary Activity)
Resource Consent Application Form and AEE – (Vegetation Clearance)
Resource Consent Application Form and AEE – (Land Use – Commercial Use in a Rural Zone)
Resource Consent Application Form and AEE – (Land Use – Dwelling in a Rural Zone)
Resource Consent Application Form and AEE – (Signs)
Resource Consent Application Form and AEE – (Subdivision)
Resource Consent Application Form and AEE – (Extension of Lapse Date)
Request to Review Decisions on Administrative Discounts
If you require the approval of persons likely to be affected by a Resource Consent, the following form will need to be completed by each person so affected.
Approval Form for Persons Affected by an Application for Resource Consent
There are many signs throughout Westland serving many different purposes. Did you know that under the Westland District Plan advertising for activities or facilities outside of the District is not allowed? Also, advertising on land which is on a separate title to the business or activity is considered non-complying.
Council will be sending letters or emails out to parties whose advertising is not on the same title as their activity. The following information is specifically in relation to signage in the Westland District Plan and should be considered when applying for a resource consent.
See our District Plan sections below with further information:
4.4 Amenity
4.6 Infrastructure and Services
8.2 Signs
District Plan: Definition of signs
Appendix F: Signs in Hokitika and the Tourist Zone
If you have any queries please contact planning@westlanddc.govt.nz or phone 756 9099.
Please refer to the current Fees and Charges page for the latest information Fees and charges | Westland District Council (westlanddc.govt.nz)
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