Permitted activities

Resource consents
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What is a permitted activity?

A permitted activity is one that you can carry out without needing a resource consent from Waikato Regional Council, as long as it complies with all the conditions set out in the relevant regional plan and the Resource Management Act (RMA). 

 

Requirements for permitted activities

Waikato Regional Council's Regional Plan and Regional Coastal Plan cover all the permitted activity rules. The activities are subject to compliance with conditions, just as resource consents are. And if these conditions cannot be met, then you will need a resource consent.

There are also some National Environmental Standards (NES) which have information and notification requirements for activities that are permitted under Waikato regional rules.

Below are some links to information on some common permitted activities and requirements.  If you have questions or need help around a specific activity, please contact us.

 

Farmer’s guide to environmental rules in the Waikato region

Up-to-date information about the rules for the activities that farmers commonly undertake, and whether these activities are permitted or need a resource consent. This guide replaces the 'Farmer's guide to permitted activities'.

Earthworks

Know before you dig! There are a number of requirements for any earthworks activity.

Farm dairy wastewater

Farm dairy effluent management system and discharges have to comply with the conditions of Permitted Activity Rule 3.5.5.1 at all times. We also have a form that helps farmers notify us that they are managing their wastewater in accordance with this rule.

Forestry

The National Environmental Standards for Commercial Forestry (NES-CF) contain regulations to be complied with, including notification to council prior to undertaking any activity.

Spraying activities

You can spray agrichemicals (insecticides, herbicides and fungicides) as long as you can comply with the conditions of the appropriate permitted activity rule. Our guideline for spraying contractors that can help you meet some of the requirements, such as putting together spray plans.

Subdividing land in the Lake Taupō catchment

New subdivisions in the Lake Taupō catchment may be permitted, subject to nitrogen and land area requirements.

Whitebait stands

There are requirements for whitebait stands, including notifying us of your stand's location.

Activities near wetlands and new structures in waterways

The national environmental standards (NES) for freshwater require information to be provided to the council for new structures in waterways and/or some activities occurring near natural wetlands. There are forms for this purpose, below, or you can contact us for more information.

Transfer of records for permitted activities

We may hold records, such as notifications, about a permitted activity that was originally being carried out by you, but is now being carried out by another party on the same location.

You can arrange a transfer of those records. Please complete the relevant form, below.