How to apply for a minor variation
A minor variation is a small change to the consented plans and specifications after a building consent has been issued. This change needs to be captured in updated plans in agreement with a Building Inspector or a Building Review Officer. An on-site variation can be requested when a scheduled Building Inspection appointment is made through Council’s customer services (07 838 6677). You will need to schedule additional time in your inspection to ensure there is time for the Building Inspector to complete the onsite Minor Variation. A variation to the approved plans can also be reviewed by sending in an application form with updated plan showing the changes, and the relevant specification material to the Building Unit building.unit2@hcc.govt.nz.
The Ministry of Business Innovation & Employment (MBIE) provides information to clarify when a Minor variation would be required.
How to apply for an amendment
An amendment to a building consent is a significant change to approved plans that will need to be reviewed by a Building Review Officer in the same way that the original building consent application was reviewed. Amendments must be approved before the proposed change can be made to the building work on site. You can apply for a Major Amendment in our online portal in the same way you apply for a building consent. When you select Major Amendment you will be asked to input both the building consent number and the address as per the original building consent – even if a subdivision has since taken place. You can also apply in hardcopy either by post or dropping off at the main council building.
Need more information?
If you have questions about plan variations or amendments, please email building.unit2@hcc.govt.nz.
Feedback
Last updated 10 June 2025