Install solid fuel heating

Why you need consent

If you want to install, replace or relocate any appliance that contains fire (new or second-hand), you will need a building consent.

If you do not have a building consent, you may have problems with your insurance if there is a fire in your building.

You do not usually need a resource consent to install solid fuel heating. However, you might need resource consent if you live in a:

• historic heritage place or
• 'special character area' under the heritage schedules.

Download the Special Character Schedule, Statement and Maps [PDF 1.7MB] from the Auckland Unitary Plan to find out if you live in a 'special character area'.

Visit Heritage advice and consenting process for more information.

Get a copy of our application guide

What you need to do to install solid fuel heating

If you are installing a wood burner or indoor fire, the appliance must comply with the Ministry for the Environment's National environmental standards for air quality.

The manufacturer of the solid fuel heating appliance can advise you which appliances comply with these regulations and standards.

Approved solid fuel heating appliances

All solid fuel heating appliances must be tested and show compliance with the NES emission and efficiency standards.

It is illegal to use any wood burner that was installed after 1 September 2005 (on a site less than 2ha) that does not comply with this standard.

A list of approved appliances is available on the Ministry for Environment website.

Installing a solid fuel heating appliance

If the installation is not done by a council-approved producer statement author, you will need to book a solid fuel appliance inspection to show that the work complies with the consent documentation.

If you are using a producer statement author to install your solid fuel heating, in addition to applying for a building consent, you will also need to:

• complete an agreement to provide a producer statement, and
• submit the producer statement to us after the installation is complete.

​Installing an outdoor fireplace

You can install an outdoor fireplace without a building consent, although you may still need a resource consent.

Installing a wetback will always need a building consent

If you are installing a wetback you will need to:

• apply for a building consent
• show the details of the installation and pipework on your plans.

You will need to book a solid fuel appliance inspection to check the installation complies with the consent documentation.

Although we inspect the installation, you need to make sure it is carried out by:

• a certifying plumber, or
• a registered or licensed plumber under the supervision of a certifying plumber.

Solid fuel heating consent fees

The installer must be listed on our producer statement authors register.

How to apply for a consent to install solid fuel heating

An approved installer can apply for the building consent on your behalf. You will need to give the approved installer written authority to act on your behalf.

Apply online

You must complete and upload this document with your online application:

You will need to login to complete the online application and pay by Visa, MasterCard, Online EFTPOS or Account2Account (bank transfer).

If you are unable to apply online

We only accept online applications for this service. If you are unable to apply digitally, visit one of our libraries with council services for assistance in making your online application.

Call us on 09 301 0101 to speak with our building and planning help desk if you have questions regarding your application.

What happens next

We process the solid fuel heating applications within 20 working days.

We will let you know the decision by email.