The Timeframe for Processing Resource Consents

The RMA gives Councils 20 working days to process and issue a non-notified decision, or up to 70 days if it goes to limited or public notification. A working day means any day except for a weekend day, public holiday, and the days between 20 December and 10 January.

Most resource consent applications are decided and granted by Council staff who have the authority to make the decision.

The processing 'clock'

Council refers to the 20 working days as the processing "clock". It is calculated from the time the application is accepted by Council for processing. It is important to note the processing clock may be stopped at any point should the Council require further information, written approvals, or additional resource consent applications.