Solar panel arrays, outdoor fireplaces, temporary storage stacks and plinths

Find out what Council permissions you might need for solar panel arrays, outdoor fireplaces, temporary storage stacks and plinths.

Building consent requirements

Ground-mounted solar panel arrays

There are building consent exemptions for solar panel arrays. You will need to check if a professional is required according to the descriptions:

1. the array, if outside a rural zone, does not exceed 20 square metres in size; and
2. the array is supported by a frame or structure that is on the ground; and
3. the frame or structure is attached to the ground by more than a single post; and
4. the distance from the top of the array to the ground does not exceed 4 metres; and
5. the array is at least 5 metres from any residential building, public road, railway, or legal boundary; and
6. either -
   1. the design wind speeds do not exceed 44 metres per second (calculated using Verification Method B1/VM1); or
   2. the array is located in a wind zone no greater than high (as defined in Acceptable Solution B1/AS1).

Permanent outdoor fireplaces and ovens

Outdoor permanent fireplaces and ovens must always be located at least 1 metre away from any combustible objects such as trees, shrubs, buildings or wood storage piles, have an overall height of no more than 2.5 metres and users should always follow the manufacturer’s safety precautions. You will not need a building consent provided that the following is true:

1. is on the ground; and
2. is not covered by a roof or wall; and
3. has an overall height of no more than 2.5 metres, and a cooking surface of no more than 1 square metre; and
4. is at least 1 metre from any legal boundary or building; and
5. disposes of smoke in a way that does not create a nuisance to people or a hazard to any property. 

Temporary storage stacks

A building consent is not required to create a temporary storage stack of goods or materials.

Plinths

A builing consent is not required in connection with any plinth or similar foundation if the plinth or foundation supports plant, a tank, equipment, machinery, or any similar item.

More information about building consents

Resource consent requirements

Many building projects may also require a resource consent. As part of the building consent process, applications are reviewed by a planner who can highlight any potential requirements, and provide some advice on what might be needed. You can also contact our duty planner, or read more about where a resource consent may be required below and avoid any potential delays to your project.

More information about resource consents