DIY Builds
Photo by cottonbro studio Pexels Logo Photo: cottonbro studio

Do I need consent to build a shed?

It's simple – sheds don't typically need consents For MBIE, the decision to allow individuals to establish minor dwellings on their property is about flexibility and the safety issues parallel to smaller buildings.

Who makes more welders or carpenters?
Who makes more welders or carpenters?

For the most part, carpenters and welders earn about the same salary, though carpenters have the slightest of edges. Of course, rates depend on...

Read More »
How much would it cost to build a 20x20 shed?
How much would it cost to build a 20x20 shed?

Average Cost to Build a Simple Shed (Shell) Average Cost to Build a Simple Shed (Shell) 20x20 Shed Price $1,500 $4,000 Cost to Build a 10x10 Shed...

Read More »

Anyone who has gone through the nightmare of home renovations knows that consents – particularly for complex or invasive renos – can be the beam that breaks the baboon’s back. Buildings are unique – and how we choose to build on our properties differs significantly. We all have our own demands and desires when it comes to the structures we want to build or renovate.

So, when it comes to building consents for garden sheds, what does New Zealand law say? How do you join #ShedLife with minimal fuss?

It’s simple – sheds don’t typically need consents

In the words of MBIE, single-storey detached buildings “not exceeding 30 square metres in floor area” typically do not need a building consent – which includes small buildings such as garden sheds, cabins and sleepouts. Whether it’s a small lean-to protecting your firewood, or a small occupied sleepout where your teenagers can just escape from it all, consent is not required. For MBIE, the decision to allow individuals to establish minor dwellings on their property is about flexibility and the safety issues parallel to smaller buildings. Typically, minor dwellings such as sheds are far less complex than a larger building and pose minimal safety issues when constructed in accordance with the plans supplied. Do bear in mind that if your shed is intended for accommodation, appropriate sanitation must be available and the building cannot include cooking facilities due to increased risks of fires in small buildings.

What does the law say?

Schedule 1 of the Building Act 2004 is reasonably clear when it comes to constructing small buildings without consent:

Building work in connection with any detached building that:

(a) is not more than 1 storey (being a floor level of up to 1 metre above the supporting ground and a height of up to 3.5 metres above the floor level); and

(b) does not exceed 30 square metres in floor area; and

(c) does not contain sanitary facilities or facilities for the storage of potable water; and (d) does not include sleeping accommodation, unless the building is used in connection with a dwelling and does not contain any cooking facilities.

Which is better Fusion 360 or FreeCAD?
Which is better Fusion 360 or FreeCAD?

The main differences between FreeCAD and Fusion 360 are: FreeCAD is open source and therefore will always be completely free, whereas Fusion 360...

Read More »
How do I put electricity in my shed?
How do I put electricity in my shed?

How to Add Electricity to Your Garden Shed Work with a qualified professional. ... Install an SWA cable. ... Determine where the sockets need to...

Read More »
Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »

2. However, subclause (1) does not include building work in connection with a building that is closer than the measure of its own height to any residential building or to any legal boundary.

Unpacking the Building Act 2004

Most of the time, you should be able to fabricate your garden shed with ease, in respect to consent. However, under certain conditions, your garden shed may need consent. For example, a kitset shed that is 2 metres high, but located 1 metre away from the fence will require a building consent, due to being too close to the property boundary. For more information on the particular ins and outs of building consents and sheds, it pays to see MBIE’s specifications around single-storey detached buildings here.

What are the rules in my local area?

Different councils have different bylaws pertaining to the garden sheds. So it always pays to check with your local council bylaws before undertaking any renovations or building work on your property. In particularly dense areas, it can be important to get consent, but it may be tricky to meet the requirements of having your shed at least its height away from the property boundary. Auckland Council makes it particularly easy, with online tools that help you check whether consents are required before putting up your garden shed.

Looking for the perfect garden shed to complete your outdoor space?

At Duratuf we have a range of high-quality steel and cedar sheds for every situation. From small steel sheds designed for your garden tools, through to gold-standard cedar sheds that look great and are built to last. Even large roller door sheds for your lifestyle block or farm. Check out our 3D Shed Builder and design your dream shed in 4 easy steps, or contact us for help finding the best sheds NZ offers.

How much would it cost to build a 12x20 shed?
How much would it cost to build a 12x20 shed?

In general, the price for a 12×20 shed ranges from about $5,000 to $16,000+, depending on the size, style, the number of add-ons, and other...

Read More »
What kind of concrete do you use for a ramp?
What kind of concrete do you use for a ramp?

If you're ramp is quite large like this one or it's larger, you'll want to order concrete from a ready-mix concrete company. It'll be much easier...

Read More »
Are shed plans easy to follow?
Are shed plans easy to follow?

These are! They guide you every step of the way to complete your dream shed.

Learn More »
Is a mature age apprenticeship worth it?
Is a mature age apprenticeship worth it?

Mature-aged apprentices can offer life experience and are therefore better equipped to handle the pressures of a full-time job. Despite requiring...

Read More »
Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »
What is the difference between 5x10 and 10x5?
What is the difference between 5x10 and 10x5?

5x10 Unit (50 sq. ft.): Ideal for storing the contents of a studio apartment, including a number of boxes, kitchen appliances, small mattress set,...

Read More »