14. Other structures

This section includes photovoltaic solar panel arrays in both urban and rural zones, outdoor fireplaces or ovens, temporary storage stacks and plinths.

More details

The table below shows the exemptions included in this section and the professional you will need to hire.

For removal of plinths, please see section 1.5. Removal of structures

Description* Exemption Is an authorised professional legally required? Who can provide professional advice?
14.1 Ground-mounted solar panel arrays 28c No Electrician or Chartered Professional Engineer
14.2 Ground-mounted solar panel arrays exceeding 20, but not exceeding 40, square metres in size (outside rural zones) 48 Yes Electrician or Chartered Professional Engineer
14.3 Permanent outdoor fireplaces and ovens 28 No Licensed Building Practitioner or Chartered Professional Engineer or Plumber or Gasfitter
14.4 Temporary storage stacks 27 No Licensed Building Practitioner or Chartered Professional Engineer
14.5 Plinths 40 Yes Chartered Professional Engineer

 

*Owners must look at the relevant section of guidance to identify under which detailed conditions the building work qualifies for the exemption.

  • Updated on 9 September 2025

This information is published by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment’s Chief Executive. It is a general guide only and, if used, does not relieve any person of the obligation to consider any matter to which the information relates according to the circumstances of the particular case. Expert advice may be required in specific circumstances. Where this information relates to assisting people: