Certificate for Public Use (CPU) Information

Any premises that are open to the public or intended for public use, whether free of charge or by payment of a charge, including but not limited to:

• shopping malls
• cinemas
• marae
• camping grounds
• garages and workshops
• funeral homes
• office and retail complexes
• rest homes, etc.

• Log in to the Simpli portal and complete Form 15.
• Use the check sheet to ensure all required documentation is included

Alternatively, you can request a paper application by calling 03 209 0330 or emailing [email protected].

The Council will assess your Certificate for Public Use (CPU) application to ensure the premises can be safely used by the public during building work. This assessment includes evaluating safety measures, structural integrity, and public amenities.

Key Factors Assessed by the Council

1. Restricted Access to Affected Areas:
   • Adequate barriers and security must limit public access to areas under construction.
   • Building work should occur outside public use hours when possible.
2. Protection Against Changes in Levels:
   • Barriers should be in place to safeguard against any changes in floor levels.
3. Operation of Specified Systems:
   • Temporary modifications to building systems may be necessary to ensure safety.
4. Means of Escape from Fire:
   • Maintain clear and safe fire escape routes, including temporary signage and updated evacuation plans as needed.
5. Structural Integrity:
   • Temporary propping or bracing may be required to support structural safety.
6. Fire and Smoke Separation:
   • Ensure fire and smoke barriers are maintained, with temporary measures as needed to address compromises.
7. Adequate Public Amenities:
   • Seal off occupied areas to minimise noise, dust, and disruption.
   • Ensure proper ventilation and provide temporary sanitary facilities if needed.

By meeting these criteria, you can improve the safety and functionality of your premises during ongoing building work, ensuring compliance with Council requirements.

• Statutory Clock: The Council has 20 working days to decide after receiving a complete application.
• If further information is required, the clock stops until it is provided.

The assessment may include an inspection of the premises by a Council building control officer to ensure all safety measures are in place. This will be arranged between the applicant and a Council building control officer.

The Council issues a CPU (Form 16) if satisfied with public safety measures. CPUs have an expiry date and are not a substitute for a CCC.

Click here to Refer to the Building Consents Fees and Chargesfor details. Please note that where the cost to process a certificate for public use exceeds the scheduled fee then additional time will be charged at the relevant officer charge out rate.