What are temporary structures?
Temporary structures can include:
- marquees
- seating
- bleaches
- stalls
- stages
- temporary ablutions.
Before you put up a temporary structure
You need to check if your temporary structure needs:
- a building consent
- a resource consent
- an exemption approval.
All building work must comply with the building code and any relevant legislation.
Resource consent for temporary structures
You may need a resource consent for the temporary structure you are proposing.
You need to get the resource consent before you start any building work.
Some activities are permitted under the Section E40 Temporary activities of the Auckland Unitary Plan (PDF 75KB).
For information on how to apply, visit our guide Temporary structure resource consent process.
Building consent for temporary structures
You may need a building consent for the temporary structure you are proposing.
You need to get the building consent before you start any building work.
For information on the process, visit Apply for a building consent.
Temporary structures that do not need a building consent
Some temporary structures that are less than 100 square metres and in place less than 30 days can be erected without a building consent, including:
- marquees or tents
- seating and bleaches
- stalls
- stages
- temporary ablutions.
You do not need a building consent for a temporary storage stack for goods and materials that will be in place for a limited time only.
For more information, visit the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) guidance on Building work that does not need a consent .
Temporary structures that may get an exemption from a building consent
Building work we may consider for an exemption includes:
- a tent or marquee with an occupancy less than 250 people
- inherently stable stands exceeding 2.4m in height or supported by a producer statement
- statues over 2m in height
- seating arrangements for less than 250 people
- Christmas trees or similar supported by a producer statement
- previously successful applications at the same location, with the same size and occupancy level
- proposals that do not require a fire report for occupancy loading or flammability index matters.
For more information on the exemption process or to apply for an exemption, visit Request an exemption from needing a building consent.
How to check if you need a consent for a temporary structure
There are several ways to check if you need a consent:
- follow the temporary structure consent process (for resource consents only)
- engage a professional to help you
- call us on 09 301 0101 to speak with the building and planning help desk.
