Building & Resource Consents
Guiding Your Project Through a Smooth, Stress-Free Consent Process
Navigating Auckland Council’s building and resource consent requirements can be complex, time-consuming, and frustrating—especially when you’re trying to keep your project moving. At CBA Design, we take the stress out of the consent process by preparing, managing, and lodging all necessary applications on your behalf. With decades of experience designing residential and commercial projects across Auckland, we understand the compliance standards, documentation requirements, and council expectations that ensure a smoother, faster approval process. From new builds to renovations, multi-unit developments, subdivisions, and extensions, our team ensures every design is backed by accurate, detailed documentation that meets regulatory standards. We manage the technicalities so you can focus on the creative and practical aspects of your project.
Complete Consent Support for Every Project
Whether your project requires a straightforward building consent or a more complex resource consent, our team provides end-to-end preparation and coordination. Because we handle these processes daily, we know exactly what council needs—and how to present applications in a clear, compliant, and organised manner. We offer support with:
Resource Consents
Certain developments require resource consent when they fall outside permitted activity standards—such as boundary adjustments, changes to land use, multi-unit developments, earthworks, or height-related considerations. We assess your project against Auckland’s Unitary Plan rules, identify any potential issues, and prepare all required documentation, drawings, and reports.
Building Consents
Building consent is required for most structural and significant alterations, new builds, extensions, and internal modifications. We prepare the architectural drawings, specifications, and supporting documents needed for council lodgement. Our precise documentation helps reduce processing delays and provides clarity for builders when construction begins.
Exemptions
Not every project requires building consent. We can evaluate whether your work qualifies for an exemption under Schedule 1 of the Building Act. When exemptions apply, we can provide the necessary drawings and guidance to ensure your project still meets building code requirements.
Certificate of Acceptance (CoA) Applications
If work has been completed without consent—often by previous owners—you may need a Certificate of Acceptance. This process can be complex, but we can help assemble the required drawings, assessments, and documentation to support your application.
Integrated With Your Building Project
Our consent service is provided as part of your design and building project with CBA Design. Because we manage the full design-to-consent process, everything is handled efficiently and professionally—from concept plans to council approval. This integration ensures:
Your drawings and documentation are consistent
Council receives a complete and accurate application
You avoid unnecessary delays or rework
All compliance requirements are addressed early in the design
Reducing Delays Through
Strong Preparation
One of the most common causes of council delays is incomplete or unclear documentation. Our team understands exactly what is required for each application type and ensures all supporting documents are accurate and compliant. Our approach includes:
Detailed architectural plans and specifications
Clear identification of non-compliances or rule breaches
Early coordination with surveyors, engineers, or planners if needed
Thorough document reviews prior to lodgement
Helping You Understand Every Step
While we manage the complex parts, we also provide guidance so you understand the consent pathway for your project. Our goal is to give you clarity so you can make fully informed decisions about the scope, timing, and feasibility of your project. We explain:
Whether your project needs building or resource consent
Any site-specific restrictions or opportunities
The expected council timeframes
Costs, documentation, and next steps
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need both building consent and resource consent?
Some projects require only building consent, while others require both—especially if the work affects zoning rules, boundaries, earthworks, or intensity. We assess your project and explain exactly what’s needed.
How long does the council take to process a building consent?
Typically, 20 working days once lodged, though RFIs can extend this. Our thorough documentation helps reduce delays.
Can I start building before consent is granted?
No. Construction may only begin once you have council approval unless the work is exempt under Schedule 1.
What happens if previous owners did work without consent?
You may need a Certificate of Acceptance (CoA). We can prepare the drawings and documentation required for this application.
How do I know if my project qualifies for a consent exemption?
We review your plans against the Building Act exemptions and let you know if consent is required or if an exemption applies.
Do you lodge the application for me?
Yes. We prepare, coordinate, and lodge the application with Auckland Council as part of your building project.
Book a Free Consultation
Want to understand what consents your project requires? Contact CBA Design today for a Free Consultation.
