Apply for a PIM

A project information memorandum (PIM) is not compulsory, but we strongly recommend you apply for one as early as you can, when you are planning your project.

A PIM is a council-prepared report containing information on special land features and regulatory requirements likely to impact on your project.

The PIM will tell you if you need approvals under other legislation such as:

  • Resource Management Act 
  • Fire Evacuation scheme
  • Heritage New Zealand approval. 

The PIM will also tell you about service connections and provide information about the land on which you want to build. It will give designers the information they need to comply with Council requirements and to produce accurate drawings.

When a Form 4 certificate is issued, it means that no building work can proceed or go beyond a certain level until resource consent is obtained. During this time, inspections are blocked. Once the Resource Consent has been issued, work can resume, and the inspection block is lifted.

Having a PIM can save time and unexpected obstacles during the building consent process.

If you do not have a device for making an online application, please view the “In person” option.

Online

Step 1.During planning

Apply for a PIM at the earliest planning stages of your building project. This will ensure you have all the information that may affect the project, which may prevent delays later.

Step 2.During building consent

You may apply for a PIM at the same time you apply for a building consent. However, this may lead to delays if the PIM site identifies issues not dealt with in your plan.

Apply for a Building Consent

Step 3.Review the guidance document

Guidance Notes - PIM Applications(PDF, 156KB)

Step 4.Register or log in to our online building portal

Register – Objective Build building consents portal 

Once you have registered, you can apply for a building consent, upload additional documents or track the status of your application.

Sign in – Objective Build

Step 5.Complete the application form

Complete the application in Objective Build and upload required documents.

If you are not ready to submit, you can save your application and complete it at a later stage.

Step 6.Review application

We will review your application. If it’s accepted, fees will be calculated, an invoice raised and sent to you.

PIM fees

If your application is not accepted we will let you know the reasons why.

You can pay the invoice either online, in person or call us with your details. We accept Visa and Mastercard payments via our Contact Centre.

Online: Pay an application fee or invoice

Phone: 09 430 4200

Step 7.Receive your PIM

If your PIM application is made separately, we have 20 days to issue a PIM following receipt of an accepted application. 

In person