Certificate of Public Use (CPU)
If the public uses all or part of your building, and you want them to access it before your building work has been signed off as complete, you can apply for a certificate for public use.
Your application will need to show that all or part of the building (whatever you are applying for) can be used safely by members of the public.
You can only apply for a certificate for public use if a building consent has been granted but the code compliance certificate has not been issued. You will still need to apply for a code compliance certificate once the building work has been completed.
Council has 20 working days to process a CPU application. It is recommended to apply for a CPU as soon as possible after issue of the building consent to avoid any delays.
Please submit your application, supporting documentation and completed CPU checklist via Objective Build.
If you are unsure as to whether you will need a Certificate for Public Use for your building please contact the Building team on (03) 211 1777.
Please note: Inspections requested for CPUs will not be accepted if there are outstanding fees. Please ensure invoices are paid prior to requesting an inspection.
Documentation
Please see below list of required documentation and how we would expect it to be submitted.
All documents to be clearly named, book marked and combined into one of the following:
Plan
Plan showing area subject to the CPU and showing any additional safety measures in place for proposed duration of the CPU.
Compliance Schedule
Where a system is not fully functional or is subject to interruption over the duration of the CPU an explanation of how this will be managed is required to be supplied.
Structure
PS4 from supervising structural engineer. If a PS4 is not available a letter from the engineer explaining that the area subject to the CPU is safe may be accepted. This letter would need to outline any temporary measures, if any, such as propping which are required.
Fire Safety
Analysis of means of escape from fire including egress paths, route changes, passive fire integrity measures and any proposed compensatory measures. Commissioning and where necessary independent certification of emergency lighting, warning and suppression systems provided.
Where the building is required to have a Fire and Emergency NZ (FENZ) approved evacuation scheme evidence of this is to be provided. Alternatively, a letter of support for the CPU from FENZ may be accepted.
Access
Safe entry into and through the parts of the building covered by the CPU demonstrated on a plan for all users including persons with disabilities. Certification provided for any mechanical installations to be used for access within the area covered by the CPU.
Hazardous Substances and Materials
Analysis of hazardous agents onsite, glazing requirements including safety glass, manifestation, and where necessary, approval from an independent certifier provided for hazardous substances where stored onsite.
Safety from Falling
Evidence that required barriers in the area subject to the CPU are in place.
Construction Hazards
Explanation of how people in the area subject to the CPU are protected from construction and demolition hazards.
Personal Hygiene
All sanitary facilities, including accessible facilities operational, compliant and available in the area subject to the CPU.
Food Preparation
Where food is stored or prepared onsite evidence of sufficient safe and hygienic facilities to allow this provided.
Ventilation
Commissioning statements and PS3s provided for ventilation systems.
Electricity and Gas
Certification of Compliance from a registered Electrician and the Certifying gasfitter
Water Supplies
Commissioning statements for backflow preventers provided, safe water temperatures at personal hygiene fixtures provided and circulating hot water systems are protected against legionella
Non-electronic applications
If you are unable to submit your Certificate of Public Use (CPU) application electronically, please complete the form below and email to vetting@icc.govt.nz along with all required supporting documentation as above.
