Navigating Temporary Structures in NZ: Do You Need a Building Consent

Navigating Temporary Structures in NZ

Planning an event in New Zealand often involves temporary structures – think marquees, stages, food stalls, or even pop-up retail spaces. While these can transform any location, understanding the building consent requirements is crucial for a smooth, compliant, and safe event. At Brevity Events, we believe in empowering you with the knowledge to make informed decisions!

The good news? Not every temporary structure needs a building consent. The key often comes down to size, duration, and purpose.

The 100sqm, 1-Month Rule: Your First Checkpoint

For many common event structures, there's a handy exemption under New Zealand's Building Act. You generally won't need a building consent for a tent, marquee, stall, booth, or similar lightweight structure if:

It does not exceed 100 square metres in floor area.
It is used for a period of not more than 1 month (30 days).

Why this matters: This exemption covers a huge range of typical event setups, from small market stalls to medium-sized wedding marquees. This can save you time and administrative costs!

Important Caveat: Even if exempt from a building consent, your structure must still comply with the New Zealand Building Code. This means it needs to be safe, stable, have adequate fire exits, and generally be fit for purpose. Safety is non-negotiable!

When a Building Consent IS Required

If your temporary structure falls outside the 100sqm/1-month exemption, you will most likely need a building consent. This includes:

Larger Structures: Any tent or marquee over 100 square metres.
Longer Duration: Structures in place for more than 30 days.
Specific Uses: Structures involving sleeping accommodation, extensive cooking facilities, or permanent sanitary facilities (toilets/showers).
Higher Structures: Stages or grandstands over 1 metre high.
Complex Builds: Any structure involving significant structural work not typically found in lightweight marquees.

Beyond Building Consent: Don't Forget Resource Consent!

Here's another critical point: a Resource Consent is separate from a Building Consent. Even if your structure is building consent exempt, you might still need a resource consent from your local council. This often relates to:

Location: Is your site zoned for events or temporary structures?
Environmental Impact: Noise, traffic, visual impact on neighbours.
Duration: Particularly for longer-term temporary installations.

Always check with your local council's planning department!

Brevity Events' Top Tip: Talk to Your Local Council EARLY!

The absolute best advice we can give you is to contact your local council's Building Consents and Planning teams as early as possible in your event planning process. They are the definitive source for requirements specific to your location and project.

They can help you:

Determine if your structure is exempt.
Understand local bylaws.
Guide you through the application process if consent is needed.

Relevant Links for Your Reference:

Building Act 2004 (Schedule 1 - Exempt Building Work): This is where you'll find the official exemptions. Look for clauses related to "tents, marquees, or similar lightweight structures."

Legislation.govt.nz - Building Act 2004, Schedule 1

Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment (MBIE) - Building Performance: MBIE provides guidance and interpretation of the Building Act and Building Code. Their website is a treasure trove of information.

Building.govt.nz - Exempt Building Work (This page is a great starting point for understanding exemptions.)

Your Local Council Website: Every council has its own section for Building Consents and Planning/Resource Consents. A quick search for "[Your City/District] Council Building Consents" will get you there.

At Brevity Events, we're here to help make your event a success, from concept to execution. Understanding these regulations is a vital part of that journey!

We know you're busy so let's get straight to it - How can we help you today?