Resource Consent Hearings

A Hearing is the formal meeting where a hearing committee considers a resource consent application and makes a decision. 

When is a Hearing Required?

Generally, a hearing is only necessary if:

  1. a Resource Consent application has been either limited-notified or publicly-notified, and
  2. submissions have been made on the application, and
  3. one or more of the submitters asks to be heard.

A hearing must take place within 25 working days after submissions close, unless the time limit has been formally extended by the Council.

However, a hearing may also take place if the Tasman District Council thinks it is necessary due to particular circumstances.

Resource Consent applicants should be aware that there can be significant costs involved in hearings.  The Council planner must prepare a staff report and this may involve using other staff experts or bringing in expertise where necessary.  Hearings also take time to organise and the staff and decision-makers attending will charge their time.  The applicant will be responsible for these costs.

On the other hand, while it is a good idea to avoid going to a hearing if you can, it is often a good way to resolve a matter and get a decision.  You should just be aware that there will be additional costs.

Before the Hearing

Find out what happens before a Hearing and how you can prepare.

At The Hearing

Find out what happens at the Hearing and how decisions are made.

After The Hearing

Find our what happens after the Hearing when a decision has been made.

Further Information

There is lots of advice available on appearing at resource consent hearings.  We strongly recommend you read one (or both) of these guides:

Guide to Appearing at a Tasman District Council Resource Consent Hearing

An Everyday Guide to the Resource Management Act Series 3.3: Appearing at a Council Resource Consent Hearing