ePlan

Version: 26 September 2014

2.1.2 How To Use The District Plan

  1. There are generally two situations that need to be covered in describing how to use this District Plan, as follows:
    1. Situation 1: A developer, prospective property purchaser or property owner wishes to know what activities can or cannot be carried out on a particular property(s) or in a particular area.
    2. Situation 2: A developer, prospective property purchaser or property owner has a specific development or activity that they wish to undertake, and wants to know where the development or activity can be established.
  2. In Situation 1, the Planning maps would be used to identify the property(s) and confirm the zone applicable. The Planning Maps also show additional information that may have a bearing on what activities can or cannot be carried out on the property(s). Additional information could include:
    1. Items of Heritage Value;
    2. Archaeological Sites;
    3. Outstanding Natural Features and Landscapes;
    4. Significant Natural Areas (SNAs);
    5. Designations;
    6. Defined Pedestrian Frontage;
    7. Amenity Protection Area (for the Industrial Zone only).
  3. The zones and additional information are cross referenced to sections of the District Plan text.
  4. In Situation 2, it is more likely that from the description of what was being proposed, reference would be made directly to the District Plan text under the zone section that appeared as likely to accommodate the proposal (e.g. if an office development was proposed, then the most likely zone would be Town Centre). Once the appropriate zone(s) were confirmed, the location of the zone(s) could be found on the Planning Maps.
  5. For both Situations 1 and 2, the use of the District Plan text is the same, and would follow the procedure outlined below:
    1. The zones include a section headed “Activity Status” which specifies the type of activities that are provided for as either permitted, controlled, restricted discretionary, discretionary, non complying, or prohibited. Activities that are specific to that zone are listed there, with activities that need to be provided for throughout the District referenced to other sections of the text (e.g. Section 6.0 – Conservation and Heritage).
    2. Many activities and terms have a “common” or general meaning that does not require explanation. However, for those activities and terms that are defined in the Resource Management Act 1991 or require definition, reference to Section 4.0 – Definitions is needed. Words that are defined in Section 4.0 are noted in italics within the rules, assessment criteria and designation schedule parts of the text. The definition of an activity can restrict the nature of the activity.
    3. An activity may also be restricted by the Zone Development Standards that are applicable to a zone and these are set out in the zone.
    4. Where a subdivision is proposed (including a cross-lease, company lease or unit title), reference needs to be made to Section 9.0 – Subdivision
  6. This is a brief précis of how to use the District Plan. Further details may be obtained from staff at the District Council.

 

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