Changes which mean homeowners will be able to build small structures like garden sheds, sleepouts and garages closer to their property boundaries without requiring building consent have come into effect.
Cabinet agreed in August to remove the minimum distance required between single-storey buildings under 10sqm and a property boundary or other residential building, and reduce it to one metre for buildings between 10 and 30sqm.
Previously, these structures needed to be set back from boundaries or residential buildings by at least their own height. Anything closer than that often required building consent.
The changes, made by amending Schedule 1 of the Building Act 2004, came into force on Thursday.
Homeowners still need to make sure that all building work is compliant with the Building Code and local district plans.
Minister for Regulation David Seymour said the Government had heard the frustration about this regulation, with section sizes shrinking and the cost of living increasing.
"There was no justification for such onerous setback distances on private property.
"Today’s housing market means space is tight and building costs are high. These types of property developments are practical and affordable improvements. Now people can utilise them without hassle."
Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk said it was fantastic that it was now simpler for property owners to build structures such as garden sheds, sleepouts, garages, workshops and hobby spaces.
"Boosting productivity in our building system means cutting red tape wherever we can – from major consenting reforms to small, everyday improvements like making it easier to put up a garden shed."
He said National and ACT shared the "firm belief" that Kiwis shouldn't be held back by "unnecessary bureaucracy" when using their backyards.
"The Coalition Government is delivering concrete action that cuts delays and makes life easier for everyday Kiwis."
Exemption allowing consent-free builds for some granny flats passes into law
Legislation allowing Kiwi homeowners to build granny flats up to a certain size without building consent passed into law earlier this month.
Under the new regulations, which come into effect in Q1 of 2026, Kiwis will be able to construct dwellings of up to 70 square metres in their backyards without a building consent.
To be eligible for the exemption, homeowners will need to ensure their granny flats are "simple in design", meet the building code, and are constructed by professional builders. They will also need to notify their local council both before they begin work and when it is completed.
RMA Minister Chris Bishop believed the new regulations could help ease the cost of living by providing families with more housing options.
"This will be great for grandparents, people with disabilities, young adults, and workers in the rural sector."
The morning's headlines in 90 seconds, including Labour’s new tax policy, heavy snow closes roads, and the King gets heckled. (Source: 1News)
SHARE ME