Frequently asked questions

1. Who is responsible for the maintenance of open drains and natural watercourses?

A watercourse on private property is the responsibility of the landowner. This includes:

• Clearing obstructions under the property owner's control
• Keeping all 1 in 10-year storm flow paths clear at all times
• Regular maintenance of drains
• Where possible, preventing erosion of open drains by riparian planting of the banks.

North Shore City Council's responsibilities include:

• Maintaining the public stormwater system as approved and constructed by the council
• The reduction or prevention of serious erosion that may have been caused by council work or council approved development upstream.

2. What is a Stormwater Management Plan and do I need to prepare one for my proposed work?

A Stormwater Management Plan (SMP) shows us how you propose to deal with or manage the stormwater your proposed work will generate or any overland stormwater flows your proposed work will affect. An SMP needs to include a site plan showing:

• Areas of site or building development which will generate stormwater run-off
• How stormwater flows will be controlled and where the stormwater will be discharged to
• Any overland flow paths thatmight affect or be affected by your development.

In most cases you will need to attach a Stormwater Management Plan to your application for Building Consent. If you are in doubt, consult a planner or engineer at Environmental Services or call North Shore City Actionline on 486 8400.

3. Who can prepare a Stormwater Management Plan?

This depends on the complexity of the stormwater issues presented by your site and development. If it appears your stormwater issues are complex, you will need to consult an engineer.

The early advice of an experienced professional may save you time and money.

4. How should I report a stormwater problem or ask for stormwater advice?

You can report stormwater problems or ask for stormwater advice by contacting North Shore City Council's Actionline on 486 8600. Actionline is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also fax us on 486 8500, email us at actionline@nthshore.govt.nz or write to:

North Shore City Council
Private Bag 93500
Takapuna
North Shore City

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