Land Development Subdivision Code of Practice

Introduction

Central Otago District Council is proposing to adopt a new Land Development and Subdivision Code of Practice 2026. The proposed code will replace Council's current NZS:4404 Addendum (2008) and establish the engineering and infrastructure standards that apply to subdivision and development within the district.

The Code provides guidance and requirements for developers, engineers, surveyors and contractors involved in the design and construction of infrastructure associated with development. It also establishes Council's expectations regarding the quality, performance and long-term maintenance of infrastructure that may ultimately become Council assets. Council is seeking feedback on the proposed Code before making a final decision on adoption.

Why are we making these changes?

Council's current subdivision and development standards are based on the NZS 4404 Addendum (2008), which is now outdated. While the national standard NZS 4404:2010 provides a comprehensive framework for land development and subdivision infrastructure, it does not fully reflect Central Otago's unique growth patterns, environmental conditions, infrastructure requirements and community expectations.

Since the current standards were adopted, development across the district has increased significantly and development patterns have evolved, including the introduction of higher-density residential zones. Industry practices, asset management approaches and engineering standards have also continued to develop.

To address these changes, Central Otago District Council has prepared a new Land Development and Subdivision Code of Practice (Code). The proposed Code establishes the design, construction and quality standards that will apply to infrastructure and civil works delivered as part of land development and subdivision projects across the district.

What does this mean in practice?

Anyone undertaking a subdivision or land development project in Central Otago will be required to design and construct infrastructure in accordance with the Code.

The Code includes requirements for:

• Road design and construction
• Earthworks and geotechnical standards
• Road drainage, accessways and rights of way
• Landscaping and open space development
• Asset information, records and as-built documentation
• Inspection, testing, certification and vesting processes

The Code has been developed to ensure infrastructure delivered through growth is safe, resilient, fit for purpose and designed with long-term performance and maintenance considerations in mind. It also provides greater certainty and consistency for developers, engineers, surveyors and contractors while helping protect the long-term interests of the community.

How to get involved

Complete the online or hard copy submission form from Monday, 7 September to 5pm on Monday, 5 October 2026. Click here to complete the submission form.

All submissions, including details of submitters will be made public via council agenda. Please read our privacy policy before you begin. Please note that you may be contacted if clarification of your submission is required.