Notes for carports: 8.1-8.3

Sections 8.1-8.3 cover three separate exemptions for carports. Before you begin your project, there are several things you need to consider.

A carport is a roofed structure that is used for motor vehicle storage. To be regarded as a carport, at least one side of the structure must be open to the outdoors at all times.

There are three separate exemptions for carports. You will need to check which professional to hire according to the specifications.

  • Carports up to 20 square metres in floor area
  • Carports up to 40 square metres in floor area, when the design is carried out or reviewed by a Chartered Professional Engineer, OR
  • Carports up to 40 square metres in floor area, when a Licensed Building Practitioner is to carry out or supervise design and construction

Before you begin your project, you need to consider the following:

Stormwater

You need to consider the Building Code requirements regarding the disposal of stormwater from the roof of your building. You may need to seek professional guidance and seek approval from to your council. All new drains must be laid by an authorised drainlayer.

District planning

Always check with your local council to make sure your proposed building work does not have any district planning implications taking consideration of maximum site coverage, yard or setback requirements, daylight access planes or permitted activities. A resource consent may be required and it is important that this is obtained before starting any building work.

Building close to boundaries

If you are building close to boundaries, you need to consider the Building Code requirements regarding protection from fire, particularly in relation to the external spread of fire to neighbouring property.

Measuring the net floor area

The net floor area in a building is measured to the inside of the enclosing walls or posts/columns.

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: