Did you know?

Building a garden shed just got easier

Did you know that since the end of 2025, it got much easier for Kiwis to build a garden shed, small garage, or similar detached building — without needing a building consent?

The Government made changes to the Building Act to give homeowners more flexibility when it comes to using their land and placing small structures closer to boundaries or other buildings.

Here’s what’s changed:

• Sheds and detached buildings under 10 square metres will be able to be built right up to a boundary or another building without a building consent.

• Single-storey detached buildings between 10 and 30 square metres will be allowed just one metre from a boundary or another building, also without a building consent.

  
  

in the past, small sheds could only be built without consent if they meet stricter setback rules — and until the law officially changes, buildings that don’t meet the current requirements may still need a consent.

These updates are designed to reduce costs, cut delays, and give homeowners more choice, whether you’re adding a tool shed, bike shed, or small garage.

Want to dig into the details?

You can read the Minister for Regulation and the Minister for Building and Construction’s press release on beehive.govt.nz.

As always, checking local district plan rules before you build is still important — and we’re happy to help you understand what applies to your property.