Building Line Restriction Removal
Got a Building Line Restriction flagged on your Form 4? We handle the entire cancellation process so you can get on with your build.
Got a Building Line Restriction flagged on your Form 4? We handle the entire cancellation process so you can get on with your build.
A Building Line Restriction (BLR) is an old encumbrance on your property title that restricts where you can build. Most were imposed by Orders in Council in the 1940s-1960s for roads that have long since been fully formed - but the restriction stays on your title until it's formally cancelled.
Most owners discover a BLR when their building consent triggers a Form 4 certificate identifying the restriction on their title.
BLRs typically require buildings to be set back 48 feet (14.6m) or more from the road centreline, severely limiting where you can place your building.
Even building work exempt under Schedule 1 of the Building Act must comply with a BLR unless it is cancelled. It can hold up your entire project.
The good news: most BLRs can be permanently cancelled and removed from your title. That's what we do.
BLR cancellation requires a planning report and a formal council application. It's a specialist process - not something your builder or architect typically handles. We've done it and we know exactly what's needed to get your restriction removed.
Talk to Us About Your BLRWe handle building line restriction cancellations from start to finish
Our planners have the expertise to prepare the planning report and statutory case required for BLR cancellation.
Title searches, historical instrument research, planning report, council application and liaison - we manage the entire process so you don't have to.
We keep you informed at every stage so you know exactly where things are at with your BLR cancellation.
A complete, well-prepared application avoids delays and gets your restriction removed so your building project can proceed.
Common questions about BLR removal and cancellation in New Zealand
A Building Line Restriction is an encumbrance registered on your property title that restricts where buildings can be placed on your land. Most were imposed by Orders in Council in the mid-20th century and require setbacks of 48 feet (14.6m) or more from a road centreline. Many are now outdated because the roads they were protecting have long since been fully formed.
Most property owners discover a BLR when they apply for a building consent and receive a Form 4 certificate from the council flagging the restriction. BLRs are listed on your Record of Title under the "Interests" section. If you're unsure, contact us and we can check for you.
A Form 4 is a certificate issued by the council as part of a Project Information Memorandum (PIM) when you apply for a building consent. It identifies any building line restrictions or other encumbrances that affect where buildings can be placed on your property.
Yes. Councils have the power to cancel a Building Line Restriction, and once cancelled the encumbrance is permanently removed from your Record of Title. Contact us to discuss whether your BLR is a candidate for cancellation.
No. BLR cancellation is a separate process under the Local Government Act 1974 - it is not a resource consent. However, your building project may still require resource consent for other reasons. We can advise you on both.
BLR cancellation requires a formal planning report and council application. It involves statutory analysis, historical instrument research, and a case for cancellation that satisfies council. It's specialist work - talk to us and we'll take care of it.
Contact us for a free assessment. We'll confirm whether your BLR can be cancelled and handle the entire process for you.
Get in Touch NowGet expert help removing the Building Line Restriction from your property title