Changes to Exemption Conditions when building a simple garden shed

Council has changed the rules so that a building consent will no longer be required to put up a simple garden shed or a free-standing carport - so long as the structure is at least 300 mm from any boundary with a neighbouring property.

With the trend toward smaller sections, it is becoming increasingly difficult for home owners to find space for a small storage shed to keep gardening tools.

Under the new rule, sheds:

• Must be at least 300 mm away from boundary to allow stormwater to disperse
• Must not be used as a sleep-out
• Must be no larger than 10 square metres in floor area for sheds and 20 square metres for carports