Apply for a building consent and/or PIM
A building consent allows you to carry out building work according to approved plans and specifications. A project information memorandum may contain information critical to the processing of your building consent application.
Building consent application requirements
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Completed application form: Use the prescribed form F002 - Building consents and/or Project Information Memorandum (DOCX file, 197.06KB)
- Project Information Memorandum (PIM): If you do not already have a PIM from the territorial authority (TA) where the building work will occur, you can complete our combined application form for building consent and PIM. Under the Building Act 2004, we are required to apply for a PIM on your behalf through the TA.
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Plans, drawings, and specifications: Submit detailed documents demonstrating that the proposed work complies with the relevant sections of the Building Code.
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CodeMark product certificates: Provide current CodeMark certificates, including alternative certificates for pre-approved product substitutions, if applicable.
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BuiltReady manufacturer’s certificates: Include the BuiltReady certificates once manufacturers are registered and the scheme is implemented.
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Certificates of design work: Submit these certificates from licensed building practitioners.
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Producer statements: We need to be confident that the engineers involved in designing your dam have the appropriate experience and competence. Producer statements can help establish compliance with the building code. View MBIE guidance on producer statements.
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Record of title: You can obtain a copy of your record of title from Land Information New Zealand. You may also be able to get a copy from your lawyer or engineer.
Preparing plans and specifications
Your plans and specifications must demonstrate how the performance requirements of the Building Code will be met. The clearer the documentation, the less likely delays will occur.
We recommend engaging a Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) familiar with New Zealand Society of Large Dams (NZSOLD) Dam Safety Guidelines, as all dam applications will be assessed using these guidelines as an alternative solution.
Incomplete or inadequate applications
- If we find that the necessary plans and specifications are missing when we check your application, we’ll return it to you.
- If we find that the plans and specifications are inadequate after we accept your application, we’ll request further information (RFI), meaning a delay until you provide the information.
- If you do not provide the requested information or we are not satisfied that the plans and specifications meet the performance standards of the building code and the requirements of the Building Act 2004, we may refuse to grant your application.
Submit your application
When your application is ready:
- Email: buildingconsents@ecan.govt.nz
- Post: Environment Canterbury, PO Box 345, Christchurch 8140
- In-person: 200 Tuam Street, Christchurch 8011 or 75 Church Street, Timaru.
