Network utility operator infrastructure
Exemption (b) of Schedule 1
A building consent is not required for the following building work:
(b) the construction or alteration of any motorway sign, stopbank, culvert for carrying water under or in association with a road, or other similar structure that is a simple structure and is owned or controlled by a network utility operator or other similar organisation:
Guidance
New Zealand requires the necessary infrastructure to operate effectively. This includes energy distribution, roading, reticulated water, public drainage and telecommunications etc. Network utility operators (NUOs) usually control this infrastructure.
The purpose of this exemption is to allow essential building work on infrastructure to be done promptly.
In many cases, this infrastructure is located on public land and often crosses territorial boundaries.
Usually this infrastructure is designed, constructed, maintained and supervised by professionals within the industry.
| Examples where this exemption could apply |
Examples where building consent is required |
- A new motorway off-ramp has been constructed and the NUO proposes to erect a motorway sign to direct vehicles. The new sign will not require a building consent
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- A NUO proposes to build a new office at its sewerage treatment plant for its employees. This office would not be considered a simple structure and would need to comply with all requirements of the Building Act. The new office will require a building consent.
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