Most resource consent applications are able to be processed without the need to notify members of the public. We generally don’t notify applications when the environmental effects of the activity will be minor and all affected people have given their written approval.

If we decide that a proposal is likely to have a broad effect on the environment Council may decide that it needs to be publicly notified.

If an application is notified, people are able to make a submission on the application and become involved in the hearing of the application.

 View current notified applications and notified decisions

What is public notification?

A public notice will appear in newspapers and on our website. We will put a notice up on the application site. We will also directly notify adversely affected people and people we are required to notify under the Resource Management Act 1991 (i.e. the Regional Council).

Anyone can make a submission supporting or opposing a publicly notified application within 20 working days. 

What happens if an application receives a submission?

We encourage applicants and submitters to communicate directly to discuss any concerns and identify ways in which those concerns can be addressed.
 
If those concerns cannot be resolved, Council may require a pre-hearing meeting or refer the parties to mediation. This is an opportunity to clarify and potentially resolve any concerns. 
 
If that doesn't succeed, a public hearing would be held to decide on your application.