Earthworks Permit application

About Earthworks

Earthworks can be described as any activity that disturbs soil, earth or land surfaces.

The purpose of the Control of Earthworks Bylaw 2019 is to control excavation, filling or cellar work on private property where a Resource Consent under the District Plan is not required, and also to control erosion and sedimentation created by such work.

Soil erosion, sediment and dust from earthworks

Earthworks can result in erosion of exposed surfaces, which produces sediment and dust. This can then pollute streams and lakes and kill both freshwater and marine vegetation and animals.

You can reduce the harmful effects associated with sedimentation by controlling erosion which can be done by incorporating appropriate erosion and sediment controls as a part of your project.

How to apply for an Earthworks Permit

Before you start, see the user guide(PPTX, 885KB) for information on how to use our online portal.

The online process

Apply online

If you are a registered customer you can submit your application and payment online. Benefits of being a registered customer are:

  • You can upload up to 300mb files via the online portal (versus a maximum of 20mb via email)
  • You can follow the progress of your application
  • You can view any documents and letters that council may send you about your application
  • If you are asked for additional information you can send it directly to council through the online portal

PDF documents

Make sure you have the following attachments in PDF format ready to upload:

  • Record of Title (no more than 6 months old) with any listed encumbrances e.g., Consent Notices, Covenants and Easements
  • A Site Plan showing the location and dimensions of all property boundaries etc.
  • A Chartered Professional Engineer Report (if required)

Application fee

An application fee of $480.00 (including GST) applies and includes the costs for administration and one inspection. A convenience fee of 1.5% will be incurred by the payment gateway provider and is non-refundable.

NOTE: We will not issue an invoice but you will receive a receipt to use for tax purposes. Please ensure you keep this for any payment queries or GST requirements. 

The email process

Applying by email

Submit a completed Earthworks Permit application form.

You must include the following:

  • A Record of Title (no more than 6 months old) with any listed encumbrances e.g., Consent Notices, Covenants and Easements
  • A Site Plan showing the location and dimensions of all property boundaries etc.
  • A Chartered Professional Engineer Report (if required)

Application fee

You will receive an invoice for the application fee after your application is processed. The fee is $480.00 (including GST) and includes the costs for administration and one inspection.

Submit application

You can submit your application to the Planning Support team.