New Building Rules Reduce Backyard Red Tape
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Homeowners wanting to build a garden shed, garage, or sleepout on their property can now do so with fewer delays and less paperwork, following new changes to building rules. The Government has updated the setback rules in the Building Act, making it easier for people to make use of their backyard space without needing consent for small structures.
The revised rules remove the minimum setback distance for single-storey buildings under 10 square metres. This means a small shed can now be built right up to a property boundary or another residential building. For slightly larger structures, between 10 and 30 square metres, the required setback distance has been reduced to just one metre.
In the past, the rule stated that these types of buildings had to be as far from the boundary or another building as they were tall. If they weren’t, homeowners had to apply for a building consent — something that often led to extra cost and delays.
Regulation Minister David Seymour said the changes were made after hearing concerns through the Red Tape Tipline. “We heard the frustration about this regulation through the Red Tape Tipline. Section sizes are shrinking, and the cost of living rising. Forcing people to put sheds in the middle of their lawn or pay for a consent to store tools didn’t make sense. No homeowner wants that. So, we fixed it for them,” says Mr Seymour.
He added that there was “no justification” for the earlier rules, especially when land is limited and costs are high. The changes mean that everyday improvements, such as putting up a garden shed or small garage, are now simpler and more affordable.
Chris Penk, Minister for Building and Construction, said the new rules would make life easier for property owners and support builders and manufacturers of small structures. “Boosting productivity in our building system means cutting red tape wherever we can – from major consenting reforms to small, everyday improvements like making it easier to put up a garden shed,” said Mr Penk.
The change was made by amending Schedule 1 of the Building Act. While building consent may not be needed under the new rules, all work must still comply with the Building Code and local district plans.