Council Consent For Solar Power in NZ

From 2012 to 2024, My Solar Quotes maintained a webpage outlining consent requirements for solar power installations across New Zealand's councils.

Initially, there was confusion regarding whether consent was necessary, stemming from solar PV being treated similarly to solar hot water systems, which do require council approval. However, as the understanding of solar PV technology has evolved, it's become clear that a blanket approach to consent exists across New Zealand.

Under Clause 43 of the Building Act 2004, which exempts energy work from building consent, we confidently assert that most solar energy projects shouldn't require council approval.

Consent may only be necessary in some cases:

• Where structural alterations are needed for non-compliant roofs
• If strengthing is required for a commercial roof
• For the construction of ground-mounted structures
• If the building is located within a heritage zone.

If in doubt, seeking guidance from the local council beforehand is always advisable.