When we hold resource consent hearings
Before we make a decision on a resource consent application, we consider:
- the effects on the natural environment
- how the activity will affect other people's use and enjoyment of the environment.
We can process almost all resource consent applications without the need to notify members of the public.
However, sometimes we decide that a proposal is likely to have a broader effect.
We then consider whether to:
- notify those people who may be directly affected (limited notification), or
- notify the public generally (public notification).
Notified applications
If we notify the application, the public can make submissions on an application and become involved in the hearing of the application.
Limited notification
If your proposal will result in adverse effects on people to the extent we or a planner decide they are "affected" people, we must notify those affected, unless:
- you have already obtained
written approval from the affected parties, or
- Unitary Plan regulations prevent us from doing so.
Affected people can make a submission supporting or opposing your application within
20 working
days of being notified.
Public notification
If we determine that the effects of a resource consent are more than minor, we may decide to publicly notify your application.
A public notice will appear in newspapers and online.
We will also directly notify adversely affected people and people we are required to notify under the Resource Management Act 1991.
Anyone can make a submission supporting or opposing an application within
20 working days.
Information for applicants and submitters
Make a submission
When a resource consent submission is sent to council, we record it and pass it to the reporting planner. The reporting planner reviews submissions and assesses any issues raised. You must also send a copy of your submission to the applicant.
The planner will note if the submission is in support, opposition, or conditional support.
If there are any specialist issues, such as historic trees or road safety, the planner will generally forward those parts of the submission to the relevant council specialists for comment.
Try and resolve any concerns directly
Applicants and submitters should communicate directly to discuss, identify, and address any concerns.
If concerns cannot be resolved, we may arrange a pre-hearing meeting or refer the parties to mediation. This is an opportunity to clarify and potentially resolve any concerns.
Assessment and hearing report
Once this review is complete, the reporting planner will make an assessment of the application and submissions in a hearing report.
Before the hearing, this report will be circulated to all the parties involved.
You can choose to participate or not participate in the hearing.
Attend a public hearing
If a pre-hearing meeting or mediation is not successful, we will hold a public hearing to decide on the application.
If you change your mind about attending a hearing, advise the relevant resource consent office as soon as possible before the date of the hearing, using the relevant email address:
