Driveways/Vehicle Crossings

A vehicle crossing is the section of driveway that connects the front property boundary to the roadway and includes any crossing constructed over a footpath, curb, berm, water channel, or drain.

The initial construction, including the cost, is the property owner’s responsibility and your local Council will ensure that all construction complies with appropriate standards and location as specified in the District Plan. The on-going maintenance or repair of the vehicle crossing is the responsibility of the property owner.

Rural property owners are also responsible for ensuring that any culvert pipes under a vehicle crossing are kept clear of debris and do not cause a flooding nuisance.

The proposed location and construction of new vehicle crossings will need approval from your local Council. You will need to complete an application form and pay the appropriate fee. Once the application has been approved you must arrange for a Council approved the contractor to construct the crossing within the specified time period, or you will need to re-apply for approval if it lapses(i.e. work has not started within the specified time period). Your Council may require a final inspection of works following construction. Check with your Council at the time of application.

Yes, the widening or relocation of vehicle crossings is permitted, subject to the completion of an application form and approval from the Council that the vehicle crossing complies with District Plan rules. If your proposal falls outside what is permitted by the District Plan, you may be able to apply for a Resource Consent for a variation. Contact the planning unit of your local Council for further information