Resource Consent Classifications
In the RMA and local planning documents there are five CLASSIFICATIONS for resource consents:
- PERMITTED – can happen without a resource consent
- CONTROLLED
- RESTRICTED DISCRETIONARY
- DISCRETIONARY
- NON-COMPLYING
- PROHIBITED – not allowed
Activities that need a resource consent are classified as either controlled, restricted discretionary, discretionary, or non-complying. They have varying degrees of stringency in how Council processes them. The Council typically must grant resource consents for controlled activities but can refuse to grant resource consents for restricted discretionary, discretionary, or non-complying consents.
Permitted activities are allowed and no consent is needed.
Prohibited activities are expressly not allowed and you cannot apply for a resource consent for them.
