Clarity Backed by Expertise
Resource consent and planning processes can be difficult to navigate, particularly when the answer depends on the specific site or proposal. These FAQs explain common planning questions in plain English and help identify when it may be useful to seek early, project-specific advice. If you are unsure how the rules apply to your property or proposal, contact SFH Consultants to arrange an initial planning discussion.
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It depends on the proposal and the planning provisions that apply to the property. A site-specific planning review is the most reliable way to identify consent triggers.
Do I need resource consent?
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What happens if my application is notified?
Yes. A planning review can identify relevant zones, overlays, precincts, designations, standards and other planning constraints or opportunities before purchase.
Can you review a property before I buy it?
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Provide the site address, a description of the proposal, any available plans, relevant council correspondence and the outcome you are seeking.
What information should I provide for an initial review?
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What is an Assessment of Environmental Effects?
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Can SFH coordinate other consultants?
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Do you assist with coastal activities?
What is a Section 92 request?
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It is the application assessment that describes the proposal, identifies its potential environmental effects and assesses those effects against the relevant planning framework.
It is a request from council for further information where additional material is considered necessary to assess the application.
Yes. Where appropriate, we can assist in defining and coordinating planning-related inputs from architects, engineers and other technical specialists. Alternatively, we can fit into an existing team of consultants you may already have.
Subdivision potential depends on the planning framework, site characteristics, servicing, access and the form of development proposed. A preliminary review is recommended.
Can you help respond to council questions?
Neighbour involvement depends on the notification and affected-person assessment. The answer is proposal-specific and should be assessed against the relevant statutory tests.
A notified application follows a process that may include submissions and a hearing. The specific process depends on whether notification is limited or public.
Yes. We can review planning questions, coordinate specialist responses and prepare a consolidated response to council.
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Do you only work in Auckland?
Changes may be possible, but the appropriate process depends on the nature and scale of the proposed change and the terms of the existing consent.
SFH Consultants is Auckland-based, however, we frequently work outside of Auckland including other major cities and towns and the smaller regions throughout New Zealand.
Yes. We assist with coastal permits for structures and activities such as ramps, jetties, and moorings. We recently obtained consent for jetties on Great Barrier and Kawau Islands, both included mooring relocations.
Yes. SFH Consultants prepares expert planning evidence for council and Environment Court processes.
Send the site address, a short proposal description and available plans or correspondence, then arrange an initial discussion.