New Building Consent exemptions: What builders need to know

These changes to building consent exemptions make it easier to install solar panels and construct small, detached buildings.

Solar panel installations

• No building consent required for roof-mounted solar panel arrays on residential and non-residential buildings.
• 2 exemption categories:
  • Under 40 m² in wind zones up to “high”
  • Over 40 m² or in wind zones above “high”, must be designed or reviewed by a Chartered Professional Engineer
• LBPs must ensure installations comply with:
  • the Building Code
  • local District Plans
  • all exemption conditions.

Boundary setback changes

• Applies to single storey detached buildings up to 30 m² (e.g. sheds, sleepouts, garages, greenhouses).
• New setback rules:
  • No setback required for buildings under 10 m²
  • Minimum 1 metre setback for buildings 10–30 m²
• LBPs must still check for compliance with:
  • local district plans
  • the Resource Management Act 1991

These updates aim to streamline construction while ensuring safety and regulatory alignment. LBPs should continue to follow best practices and verify local requirements before starting work.

Solar panel and boundary setback building consent exemption changes(external link) — Building Performance