What this checks
It works out three numbers and checks each against your zone: building coverage (your building footprint), impervious area (all hard surfaces – building, paving and decks), and landscaped area. In the Single House zone, for example, the Unitary Plan sets 35% building coverage, 60% impervious area and 40% landscaped area; other zones differ.
💡 Homeowner tip: driveways, patios and paths add up fast. Impervious area, not building footprint, is usually the limit that catches people out – so count every hard surface, not just the house.
Please note: limits are checked only where your zone’s figures are set, and permeable paving is counted as impervious because its Unitary Plan credit is not confirmed. Terrace Housing and Apartment Buildings standards are under change through Plan Change 120. This is an indication; confirm with the Auckland Unitary Plan or Auckland Council.
Common questions
What is the difference between building coverage and impervious area?
Building coverage is your building footprint as a share of the site. Impervious area is every hard surface that sheds water – the building plus driveways, paths, patios and paving. Impervious is usually the tighter limit.
What are the Auckland site coverage limits?
They vary by zone. In the Single House zone the Unitary Plan sets 35% building coverage, 60% impervious area and a 40% minimum landscaped area. Mixed Housing Suburban and Urban zones allow more coverage.
Does permeable paving count as impervious?
This tool counts it as impervious, because the Unitary Plan’s treatment of a permeable-paving credit is not confirmed. If you are relying on permeable surfaces to meet a limit, check the current position with Council.
Coverage limits shape what you can build before design even starts. We factor them in from the first sketch.
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