Project Information Memoranda (PIM)
Project Information Memoranda (PIM) 
PIMs are Council documents issued under Section 31 of the Building Act 2004. The Land Information Memorandum (LIM) has a different purpose. A Project Information Memorandum must be obtained for all building work that requires a Building Consent .
They are the first step in the process to gain legal approval for building work. Project Information Memoranda provide information relevant to the proposed project that is known to Council about land including such features as:
- Potential inundation / flood risk
- Potential erosion
- Falling debris
- Subsidence
- Slippage
- Heritage status of the building
- Identification of cut and filled land
- Wind zone
- Vehicle crossing requirements
- The possible presence of hazardous contaminants
- Details of stormwater, and wastewater utilities systems.
- Resource Consents and other authorisations that may be required.
- Need for an evacuation scheme where applicable
- Site vehicular access restrictions during construction work
- Notification of any Development contribution that may be payable
- Any notification that building work cannot be undertaken because some necessary authorisation has been refused despite there having been a Building Consent issued.
- Confirmation that building work may be undertaken subject to the requirements of any Building Consent , Resource Consent or all other necessary authorisations being obtained.
For Project Information Memorandum purposes the term land means the land on which building work is to be undertaken and any other land likely to be affected by that work.
Project information memoranda should be issued within 20 working days of the application receipt date provided all required information is supplied with the application.
What are development contributions?
The Local Government Act 2002 provides a mechanism for Councils to set development contributions to provide for infrastructure projects. Where these have been set for a particular development area, the Building Act allows for a notice to be attached to the PIM advising of the contributions payable.
The code compliance certificate (CCC) may be withheld until such time as the development contribution has been paid.
PIMs and LIMs
PIMs and LIMs are both issued by your local council. The main difference is that the PIM is specific to a proposed project – hence the name Project Information Memorandum. Whereas the Land Information Memorandum (LIM) gives information on the council’s files on land and buildings that already exist.
When and how do you apply for a PIM
You may apply for your PIM:
Your application:
- must be on the prescribed application form and be completed in full,
- must be accompanied by the prescribed application fee,
- must be accompanied by plans, specifications and other information required by Council.
There are checksheets and guidance documents available to help you prepare applications and to put together the necessary information. Note: The Council will not accept incomplete applications.