If you are constructing a new dam, or altering an existing dam, you are likely to require a building consent if your dam is a large dam (4 or more metres high and holds 20,000 cubic metres or more of water or other fluid). The construction of smaller dams does not require a building consent but are still required to comply with the Building Code. Large or small, you may also require a resource consent under the Resource Management Act to divert or hold water or other fluid.
Building consents for dams
Greater Wellington has transferred most of its Building Act (2004) functions to Waikato Regional Council and they manage building consents for dams on our behalf. Waikato Regional Council has specialist expertise on the building consent process and is accredited as a Building Consent Authority (BCA).
Further information on the building consent process, application forms and checklists can be found on the Waikato Regional Council website. We recommend you liaise directly with Waikato Regional Council about your dam consent requirements as Waikato Regional Council has the necessary expertise.
A project information memorandum (PIM) is required by Waikato Regional Council to accompany a building consent application. A PIM details the information a council knows about site where the proposed dam is to be constructed, or an existing dam is altered. You will need to apply for a PIM from both Greater Wellington and the city or district council, responsible for the area where the work is proposed.
Resource consents for dams
A water permit is required under the Resource Management Act (1991) to dam or divert water – and you can apply for that from Greater Wellington.
Form 1: Resource Consent Application
The information you provide with your application is official information and available to the public. It will be used to process your application and, together with other official information, assist…
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Form 2a: Water permit application to dam and/or divert water
The questions provide a guide in order to satisfy the minimum information requirements that must be included with your application as prescribed in Schedule 4 of the Resource Management Act…
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Dam safety regulations
On 13 May 2024, new regulations came into effect to improve the safety and resilience of New Zealand’s dams - Building (Dam Safety) Regulations 2022.
Find out more about these regulations and how to comply.
