Consent exemptions expanded for solar installations

New building consent exemptions passed into law on 23 October 2025 are expected to streamline the process for installing small-scale solar systems on homes and commercial buildings, as part of the Government’s wider effort to support sustainable construction 

The proposed changes, which Under Construction reported on in July, commenced on 23 October and apply to roof-mounted and ground-mounted photovoltaic (PV) arrays. Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk said they are designed to reduce cost and compliance complexity for low-risk renewable energy projects. 

“These updates provide greater clarity for tradespeople, building owners and councils, while removing unnecessary costs and delays for low-risk work,” Penk said. 

What’s now exempt 

According to the Ministry of Building, Innovation and Employment, the new solar panel array building consent exemptions allow for roof-mounted solar panel arrays to be installed without a building consent. 

The Government originally announced the change would be for rooftop solar installations on existing residential buildings. The exemption was later extended to non-residential buildings to support greater uptake of solar power in New Zealand. 

The new exemptions are for: 

1. Roof-mounted solar panel arrays that are less than 40m2 in area and in a wind zone no greater than high. 
2. Roof-mounted solar panel arrays that are more than 40m2 in area or in a wind zone greater than high. However, these must have the design carried out or reviewed by a Chartered Professional Engineer. 

“For rooftop installations over 40m2 in total area per roof, or in very high wind speed areas, a chartered professional engineer must provide or review the design of the structural fixings for the exemption to apply,” said Penk.  

“Most residential rooftop solar arrays are between 25 and 30m2, so the majority of households will be able to install their solar panels without involving an engineer.” 

The exemptions are subject to several technical and environmental conditions. All exempt building work must still comply with the New Zealand Building Code and other applicable legislation, including district plans and boundary setback requirements where relevant. 

MBIE has published technical guidance to support builders and installers in determining whether consent exemptions apply. It also outlines requirements around structural support, wind and snow loading, fire safety, and performance testing of installed systems. Click here to access it. 

Fast-track consents for sustainable homes 

Penk also announced that the fast-track consent pathway, a scheme to incentivise homeowners to switch to solar by introducing 10-day consents for plans that include solar generation in their design, has been expanded to include all ‘sustainable buildings’ – which will be defined in the Building Act. 

“To qualify, buildings will need to meet performance criteria demonstrating it has at least one of the following features: high energy efficiency, water efficiency, low embodied carbon, or climate resiliency.   

“Legislation to create a fast-track building consent process for sustainable buildings, including those with solar panels, will be included in a Bill I intend to introduce to Parliament early next year.  

“The Chief Executive of MBIE will set the performance criteria for each sustainable building attribute through secondary legislation, ensuring clear guidance for builders and developers.”