Submitting feedback on a resource consent application

Step 1: YOU

What you need to know

If a resource consent is notified, you may have the opportunity to give feedback by making a submission.

Publicly notified resource consents: anyone can make a submission.
Limited notification consent: you can only make a submission if you’ve been identified as an affected party.

Once a decision has been made on an application, only people who have made submissions are allowed to appeal to the Environment Court.

Find resource consents that are open for submissions.

Step 2: YOU

How to make a submission

You can make a submission on all or part of a resource consent application. Your submission can be in favour, in opposition, neutral or a combination.

You must make your submission to Council within the statutory timeframe stated on the formal notice from the date of notification and send a copy to the applicant.

Include on your completed form:

which aspects you oppose, support or are neutral towards, and why
the applicant’s details (see the public notice for these)
if you want to speak at a hearing.

Download the application form

Submission on a Notified Resource Consent Application

pdf 148 KB

Submit your application

Step 3: COUNCIL

What you can expect from us

If a hearing is held for a notified resource consent

If you’ve made a submission and requested to be heard, we’ll let you know when a hearing is scheduled. At the hearing, presentations for and against the proposal will be heard by one or more commissioners. The commissioner might ask you questions about your submission and any evidence you’ve put forward.

You can only speak to issues that are included in your submission. You don’t have to present your submission at a hearing, but you’ll have the chance to explain your point of view to the commissioner and present any evidence you have to support it. You can nominate someone else to present what’s in your submission if you prefer. There is no cross examination. Only the commissioner can put questions to you.

After the hearing is closed, the commissioner will make a decision within the statutory timeframe. If the hearing is adjourned and further information sought, the process would take longer. You’ll receive the decision by email or by post.