Project Information Memorandums (PIM)
What is a Project Information Memorandum (PIM)?
A project information memorandum (PIM) is a report that outlines any information or special features of the land, as well as regulatory requirements that may impact/be relevant to building on that site. The report is prepared by Council and provides a basis of information for all parties involved in the project.
Why do you need a PIM?
Although they are voluntary, Council recommends that everyone applies for a PIM when creating new dwellings, commercial projects and other large or significant building activities.
A PIM also assists in the building consent process. It identifies whether there is need for a consent, assists in the information and requirements for service connections/disconnections, as well as providing the owner any information that Council has on the land on which you intend to build.
How to apply for a PIM
You must provide Council with a completed application form, as well as:
- Details of where the building work will be carried out
- Details on the type of work that will be carried out
- Specific details if the use of the site/building is to be changed
- The estimated value of the building work
- Previous consents issued for the project
- Subdivision details
- Any other information that may be required by Council
- Considerations of any existing drains or sewers close to wells or water mains
PIM processing times
Council will issue the PIM to you within 20 working days of receiving your application.
We might need to request further information from you after receiving the application. We will do this within 10 working days and the application will be paused until we receive more information. We will issue the PIM within 10 working days of receiving all of the further information requested.
A PIM can be reissued where a territorial authority considers on reasonable grounds, that the PIM contains an error or omission, or information is received that affects it.
What's in a PIM?
The PIM will include information that relates to the proposed building work. This includes:
- Information that identifies special features of the land (if any)
- Information that has been provided to the territorial authority by a statutory authority (in relation to the building site)
- Information on existing storm/waste water systems (on or near the building site)
- Information of any requirements to be met and conditions in regards to the building site that may not be accessible under other Acts
- Confirmation that building work may be carried out on the site (as long as other documentation is applied for and approved) OR notification that the proposed work had been refused
You can read more about PIMs on the building.govt.nz website.
Other authorisations
The PIM may identify that you need to obtain other authorisation.
If your proposed building does not comply with the District Plan, then a Resource Consent will have to be obtained.
If you intent to build in a flood-prone area, you will require a report from the Otago Regional Council.
