Our RMA enforcement powers
EPA enforcement powers under the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA) will complement local authorities' compliance, monitoring and enforcement (CME) functions.
The RMA is New Zealand’s main piece of legislation that sets out how we should manage our environment. Most decisions on resource management are made by local government (councils).
We now have statutory power to assist in an enforcement action of a local council, and if necessary directly enforce the requirements of the RMA.
The EPA will build stronger partnerships with local government, help build capability, and support an increase in compliance, monitoring and enforcement activities within New Zealand under the RMA.
We received enforcement powers under the RMA on 1 July 2020.
Our CME: RMA intervention guidelines outline factors we may consider when deciding whether to intervene in an enforcement action of a local authority under section 343F(c) of the RMA. Read these guidelines in conjunction with our regulatory compliance policy.
The Unit's role
Councils can request our support in investigating non-compliance with the RMA.
For example, we may:
- interview witnesses in relation to an incident
- peer review investigation files
- support councils in their enforcement decision making
Local councils
Local councils have certain roles and responsibilities under the RMA.
Roles and responsibilities of local government under the RMA - Ministry for the Environment website