Demolition/removal of buildings
Demolition or removal activities can have adverse effects on the environment, people and Council’s infrastructure. For example, a vehicle crossing being damaged by a truck, which is a Council asset and may also cause issues for the public using the footpath.
It is the duty of the Invercargill City Council to ensure that adverse effects are avoided, remedied or mitigated. The following is a general outline of some of the demolition or removal standards and requirements set out in the Invercargill City Council District Plan 2019.
While most demolitions may be exempt under the Building Act, it may still need a consent under the District Plan. The Building Act exemptions do not override the Resource Management Act 1991.
How much can I remove?
Except for buildings listed in Part Three - HH Heritage of the District Plan, demolition and removal of buildings and structures is a permitted activity with an area less than:
| Zone | Area permitted to remove |
|---|---|
| Residential 1 and 1A | Less than 80m² |
| Residential 2 | Less than 80m² |
| Residential 3 | Less than 80m² |
| Residential 4 | Less than 80m² |
| Otatara | Less than 80m² |
| Rural | Less than 120m² |
| Smelter | Less than 1000m² |
| All other zones | Less than 120m² |
It is your responsibility to ensure that your site is left tidy and no nuisance is caused to neighbouring properties.
If you wish to remove or demolish buildings larger than what is permitted, you will need to apply for land use consent. For more information, refer to the Apply for a resource consent page.
Land use consent application
Like any resource consent, an application for land use consent must meet the requirements under section 88 of the Resource Management Act 1991. In addition to the standard requirements, Council also considers the following matters when addressing your application:
- Screening mechanisms if needed.
- Mitigation of the effects of any earthworks under-taken in association with the demolition.
- Site rehabilitation.
- The imposition of a bond to ensure the completion of rehabilitation including any necessary remedial work to infrastructure damaged or affected as a result of demolition of removal activity. The value of the bond shall be calculated at up to 1.5 times the value of the work required to rehabilitate the site.
- The ability to either recycle or to dispose of waste materials in an environmentally responsible manner.
- The time needed to complete the demolition or removal.
- The methods proposed for demolition and disposal or removal.
What do I need to supply with my land use application?
- A completed and signed application
- Payment of the land use consent fee
- Site plan/ images showing area proposed to be demolished/ removed
- Assessment of Environmental Effects
It is also helpful if the approved contractor who is undertaking the works is noted on the application.
If you need assistance with applying for a land use consent we recommend seeking help from a Planning Consultant.
Please note that a land use consent application must be lodged and approved by Council before the demolition/ removal occurs. If it is applied for after the building has been removed, you may need to apply for a retrospective land use consent (additional fees may apply).
If your building is a heritage building, please get in contact with the Planning team.
Questions?
If you have any questions, get in touch with the Planning team.
Planning team
- Email: duty.planner@icc.govt.nz
- Phone: (03) 211 1777
