Can I Get A Building Consent Exemption for My Shed?

You’ve got the site prepared and the shed design ready to go. But then comes the big question: Do I need a building consent?

If you’re planning to build a pole shed on rural land, there’s a strong chance it could be exempt from building consent, based on your shed meeting the right criteria. 

However, if you’re after a larger shed or need clearspan space without internal supports, chances are your design will require building consent. At Alpine, we’ve spent over 30 years helping clients get their ideal sheds approved and built, with thousands of consents successfully lodged. If your shed design doesn't meet the exemption criteria, our team knows how to navigate the complexities of the consent process efficiently.

In this blog, we’ll explain when a rural pole shed qualifies for exemption — and how we can support you when it doesn’t.

JUMP TO:

• What Is A Building Consent Exemption?
• Does My Shed Qualify For An Exemption?
• Design and Construction Oversight.
• How To Apply For A Building Consent Exemption.
• Consent Exemptions Done Right.
• What If My Shed Does Require Building Consent?

What is a building consent exemption?

In New Zealand, most building projects require consent from your local council to ensure they meet the Building Code. But not every structure needs one. That’s where building consent exemptions come into play.

An exemption means you’re legally allowed to carry out specific building work without going through the full consent process, provided you follow specific rules.

The goal? To free up simple, low-risk projects from unnecessary red tape.

Sheds are one of the most common structures that fall under these exemptions, especially under Schedule 1 of the Building Act 2004, which outlines what types of building work are exempt.

However, it is important to note that not every shed is exempt.

Does my shed qualify for an exemption?

If you’re planning to build a pole shed on rural land, there’s a strong chance it could be exempt from building consent—but only if it meets a specific set of criteria outlined in Clause 2.6 of Schedule 1 of the Building Act.

To qualify, your shed must:

• Be located in a rural zone (as defined by your district plan).
• Be a detached, single-storey structure with a floor level no more than 1 metre above ground, and the highest point of the roof no greater than 4 metres.
• Have a total floor area of 110 square metres or less.
• Be designed or reviewed by a Chartered Professional Engineer, ensuring it meets the NZ Building Code.
• Have an unsupported roof span no greater than 6 metres—any wider and you’ll need a centre pole to remain exempt.
• Be set back at least its own height from any residential building, public road, railway, or legal boundary.
• Be on a site with a wind zone no greater than ‘high’, not exceeding 44 m/s.
  
  

The shed must also be used only for farming activities, can not be open to the public, and cannot store hazardous substances as defined in the Health and Safety at Work (Hazardous Substances) Regulations 2017.

Even if building consent isn’t required, you still need to comply with district planning rules. That means checking things like site coverage, boundary setbacks, and height restrictions. A resource consent may still be necessary, depending on your local council.

Design and Construction Oversight:

Professional Involvement: The design must be carried out or reviewed by a Chartered Professional Engineer. Alternatively, a Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) can carry out or supervise both the design and construction. ​

Additional Considerations:

• Stormwater Management: Ensure compliance with Building Code requirements regarding the disposal of stormwater from the roof. Professional guidance may be necessary, and approval from your council might be required. Click here to learn more. ​
  
  
• Change of Use: Any future change in the use of the building (e.g., converting it to allow public access) requires notifying the council as stipulated by section 114 of the Building Act 2004, ensuring compliance with section 115 of the Act.  Click here to learn more.​
  
  
• District Planning Rules: Always consult with your local council to confirm that your project aligns with district planning rules, such as maximum site coverage and setback regulations. Even if a building consent is not needed, a resource consent might still be required. ​
  
  

By meticulously adhering to these specifications and considerations and engaging with qualified professionals, you can confidently proceed with your pole shed project, ensuring both compliance and efficiency.

How to apply for a building consent exemption

Applying for a building consent exemption for a pole shed isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about proving that your shed meets all the right criteria from the start.

Here’s how to do it right:

1. Get your design signed off by a Chartered Professional Engineer. (Alpine will do this for you).
This is non-negotiable for rural pole sheds up to 110m² under Clause 2.6. The engineer must either design or thoroughly review the plans to ensure they meet the Building Code.

2. Prepare your documentation.
This usually includes:

• Engineers design or review statement.
• Shed layout plans and elevations.
• Site plan showing distances to boundaries, roads, and dwellings.
• Evidence of the rural zoning (from your district plan).

3. Submit an exemption request to your local council.

Although you’re asking to bypass building consent, you still need to apply for the exemption through your council. Some councils have online portals, while others may ask for a formal written request.

4. Wait for approval.

Processing times vary, but councils will assess whether your shed meets the exemption rules. If they agree, they’ll issue a confirmation in writing. Only then should you begin construction.

5. Keep a record.

Hold on to all documentation, including the council’s written confirmation. You may need it later for insurance, resale, or to prove compliance if questioned.

At Alpine, we work closely with engineers and councils, and we know exactly what’s needed to make the process smoother. 

Consent Exemptions Done Right 

By sticking to the size limits and understanding the council process, you can avoid council consent fees and keep your project moving. 

At Alpine, we’ve helped countless Kiwis navigate this exact process. From engineer-reviewed designs to guidance through the exemption steps, we’re here to make it easier.

What if my shed does require building consent?

While consent-exempt sheds are a great option for some, they’re not always practical. If you’re after a larger shed, or need clearspan space without internal supports, chances are your design will require building consent.

At Alpine, we’ve spent over 30 years helping clients get their ideal sheds approved and built, with thousands of consents successfully lodged. if your shed design doesnt meet exemption criteria, our team knows how to navigate the complexities of the consent process efficiently - click here to learn more.

If your shed does require a building consent, and you want to know more about the costs involved, click here.

Want to explore a range of priced, consent-exempt sheds?                                                                   Take a look at Easy Kit, our newest division that provides centrepole, consent-exempt sheds > Kitset Centrepole Sheds by Easy Kit.