Automatic extensions to some resource consents
Recent Government changes mean that some resource consents, which were due to expire before or on 31 December 2027, have been automatically extended. Read the full consent extension notice.

Before you apply

Useful information to know before you apply for a resource consent.

Applying for resource consent

Useful information to guide you through the consent process.

After your consent has been issued

Find out about your responsibilities as a consent holder, exercising your consent and adjusting conditions.

Consent notifications, submissions and hearings

View current notified consents, consent hearings and hearing decisions.

Proposals of public interest​​

Keep up to date with current consent projects that are of interest to the public.

Building consents for large dams

Information about safety regulations and consents for large dams.

What is a resource consent?

A resource consent is formal approval from Environment Canterbury that allows an activity which may affect the environment and isn’t permitted by regional plans.

Resource consents are required under the Resource Management Act 1991 and help ensure land, water and air are used in ways that protect the environment and the interests of the wider community.

You may need a resource consent if your activity involves:

  • taking, using or diverting water
  • discharging contaminants to land, air or water
  • building or carrying out works in rivers, lakes or coastal areas
  • using land in a way that doesn’t meet regional plan rules

Not all activities need a resource consent. Whether one is required depends on:

  • the type of activity
  • where it takes place
  • the rules in Canterbury’s regional plans

To avoid delays and unexpected costs, we recommend talking to using our pre-application service. Our Advisory Team can help you understand whether a resource consent is needed and what your next steps are.

We are also responsible for issuing building consents for large dams, ensuring large dams are well constructed, regularly monitored and that the potential risks to people and property are minimised.

Consent tools