Thinking about installing a new fence? Whether it’s for privacy, security, or style, many homeowners in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Taranaki don’t realise that council consent may be required—and skipping this step could mean fines or having to tear it down.
The good news? Getting consent doesn’t have to be a headache. In this guide, we’ll break down when you need a consent, how to apply, and what each council requires, so you can get your fence up without unnecessary delays.
Do You Need Council Consent for Your Fence?
Not all fences require council consent, but it depends on height, location, and materials. Here’s a quick guide:
No consent needed: If your fence is under 2 to 2.5m high and doesn’t obstruct visibility or breach district planning rules.
Consent required: If your fence is taller than 2 to 2.5m, near a road corner (affecting visibility), or made of materials that breach local design standards.
Each council has slightly different rules, so let’s break it down city by city.
Auckland Council Boundary Fence Rules
If you live in Auckland, your fence must comply with the Auckland Unitary Plan (AUP). Here’s what you need to know:
When You Don’t Need Consent:
Residential fences up to 2.5m high (except on road boundaries)
Front fences up to 1.2m high if near a street or driveway
Side & rear fences up to 2.5m (except heritage zones)
When You Need Consent:
Fences over 2.5m high
Fences on road frontages over 1.2m high
Fences in heritage zones or coastal areas
Retaining walls over 1.5m with a fence on top
How to Apply:
Submit a building consent application via Auckland Council’s website. Expect processing to take 20 working days.
Wellington City Council Fence Regulations
Wellington follows the Wellington City District Plan, which has slightly different height limits.
When You Don’t Need Consent:
Fences up to 2m high on residential properties
Front fences up to 1.2m high along streets
Side and rear fences up to 2.5m, as long as they don’t shade neighbours
When You Need Consent:
Fences over 2m high (except for side/rear fences up to 2.5m)
Fences blocking a driver’s line of sight near roads
Fences in heritage-listed areas
How to Apply:
Wellington City Council applications can be lodged online
Christchurch City Council Fence Regulations
Christchurch’s District Plan is similar but has stricter rules in some zones.
When You Don’t Need Consent:
Fences up to 2m high in residential areas
Front fences up to 1.2m high
Side/rear fences up to 2m (except in heritage zones)
When You Need Consent:
Fences over 2m high
Fences on a boundary next to a road exceeding 1.2m
Fences in historic or rural zones
How to Apply:
Applications are handled via the Christchurch City Council website. Approval can take up to 20 working days.
Taranaki Fence Regulations
Taranaki follows the New Plymouth District Plan, which sets rules for fencing in the region.
When You Don’t Need Consent:
Fences up to 2m high in residential areas
Front fences up to 1.2m high near roads
Side/rear fences up to 2.5m (except in heritage areas)
When You Need Consent:
Fences over 2m high
Fences obstructing road visibility
Fences in heritage or coastal protection zones
How to Apply:
Applications for consent can be submitted via the New Plymouth District Council website. Processing time varies but typically takes up to 20 working days.
Common Mistakes That Delay Fence Consents
Building too close to the boundary – Check with your council before finalising plans.
Skipping neighbour discussions – If your fence is on a shared boundary, they may need to contribute.
Choosing non-compliant materials – Some councils restrict materials like barbed wire or reflective metal in residential areas.
Final Tips for a Smooth Consent Process
Check your council’s specific regulations before starting.
Get a professional fence builder to ensure compliance.
Submit your application early to avoid project delays.
Communicate with your neighbours to prevent disputes.
Need a Hassle-Free Fence Build?
At TopBuilders, our builders can guide you through the council consent process, ensuring your fence meets all local requirements. Contact us today for a free consultation and quote.
📞 Call us on 0225923399 or message us to get started.
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