Resource consents in Auckland, without the guesswork
Your project has hit a resource consent — whether that is a new build, a subdivision, earthworks, signage, a home business, or something more unusual. It is the point where a lot of homeowners and businesses freeze, because the rules read like they were written for someone else. They were not written to stop you, they were written to be met, and meeting them is most of what we do. Trig prepares the application and the assessment of environmental effects for any resource consent your project needs, and we know what Auckland Council looks for before they ask. No jargon, no obligation, just a clear read on what your site needs and how long it will take.
Do you need a resource consent?
Many projects in Auckland need a resource consent, and some do not. Whether yours does depends on the Auckland Unitary Plan rules for your site and what you are proposing to do.
Broadly, there are two categories. A land use consent covers what you build and how you use your land — this ranges from a house that breaks a height or setback rule, through to earthworks, vegetation removal, signage, running a business from home, or an activity the Unitary Plan does not provide for. A subdivision consent covers dividing land into new titles. Some projects need both, and some need consents you would not expect to. If you are not sure what your project needs, that is the first thing we work out for you, usually in a short conversation.
What we prepare, and what an AEE actually is
An application is more than a form. The core of it is the assessment of environmental effects, or AEE. That is the report that shows Council the effects of your project are acceptable, and it is where most applications are won or lost.
We prepare the full application: the AEE, the plans, and the supporting reports Council needs to make a decision. Because we also do the survey and the engineering, the reports line up with each other and with the plans, which is where applications from separate firms often come unstuck.
The consent process and how we keep it moving
- Pre-application. We check the rules and identify what your project needs to address.
- Preparation. We write the AEE and assemble the application.
- Lodgement. We submit to Auckland Council.
- Requests for information. Council often asks questions. We answer them quickly, because a slow reply is the most common cause of a slow consent.
- Decision. Council grants the consent, usually with conditions we then help you meet.
By understanding the factors that matter early, you avoid the costly redesigns and delays that come from finding a problem late.
Non-notified, limited-notified and notified, in plain English
These terms decide who gets a say in your consent, and they affect your timeline.
- Non-notified. No one outside Council is consulted. This is the fastest path, and where most straightforward projects land.
- Limited-notified. Specific affected parties, usually neighbours, are asked for their view.
- Notified. The public can make submissions. This is the longest path and the least common for residential work.
We aim to keep your application non-notified wherever the rules allow, because it is faster and cheaper for you.
Frequently asked questions
What types of resource consent do you handle?
All of them, from straightforward land use consents like a boundary setback breach, through to subdivision, earthworks, signage and less common activities. If you are not sure what applies to your project, get in touch and we will tell you.
How long does a resource consent take in Auckland?
A non-notified consent typically takes around twenty working days once lodged, though Council can pause the clock to ask questions. We keep those pauses short by replying quickly.
What is an AEE?
An assessment of environmental effects. It is the report that shows Council the effects of your project are acceptable, and it is the heart of your application.
What is the Auckland Unitary Plan?
It is the rulebook that governs what you can build and do on your site. Your zone under the plan sets most of the rules that apply to your project.
What happens if Council asks for more information?
It is common and not a sign of trouble. We answer the request promptly, so your consent keeps moving rather than sitting on hold.
Can you handle the whole application?
Yes. We prepare, lodge and manage the application through to decision, and we help you meet the conditions afterwards.
Do you cover all Auckland areas?
Very likely. We cover the greater Auckland region from Pokeno to Wellsford and anywhere in between, often further if our client requires it.