New Rules Ease Backyard Building Red Tape
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Homeowners tired of wrestling with consent paperwork to erect a modest garden shed or hobby room are set to receive welcome relief. Cabinet has signed off new setback rules that scrap the mandatory distance between a boundary and single-storey buildings smaller than ten square metres, and shrink the distance to one metre for buildings up to thirty square metres. Until now, most structures had to sit as far from the fence as they were tall unless owners paid for consent, forcing many sheds into the middle of the lawn.
“We’ve 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 doesn’t make sense.
“There is no justification for such generous setback distances on private property.
“Today’s housing market means space is tight and building costs are high. These types of property developments are practical and affordable improvements. We want people to be able to utilise them without hassle.
“We’re acting on the tips we get through the red tape tipline by removing regulation and making it easier for Kiwis to get things done. We want to hear about red tape like this that’s getting in the way – I encourage anyone with a red tape issue to report it on the Ministry for Regulation website.”
The adjustment means property owners will soon have more freedom to add useful small-scale structures without paying extra fees or waiting for officials. Typical examples include sheds for bikes and garden tools, small garages, workshops, sleepouts, or dedicated hobby rooms. Regulation Minister David Seymour and Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk say the simpler rules match the realities of rising density and rising building costs.
“This Government is relentlessly focused on making it easier and more affordable to build,” Mr Penk says.
“We don’t believe Kiwis should be bogged down in bureaucracy when making practical use of their own backyard.
“By the end of the year, homeowners will be able to put up a small shed or garage closer to their boundary or another building without needing a consent.
“That’s a real win for anyone short on space, giving them more freedom to add a bike shed, protect their tools, cover a vehicle, or even create a small sleepout for guests – all without extra paperwork.
“Frustration with the building consent system is one of the top issues flagged to the Red Tape Tipline. It’s great to see action that cuts through delays and makes life easier for everyday Kiwis”.
The ministers expect the new setback rules to take legal effect by late 2025, giving builders and councils time to update guidance.