Questions for lawyers Found 20

I burned garden waste and some old timber in my back yard in a suburban area. A neighbour complained and the council sent me an infringement fine. I did not think open burning was a big deal. Is that legal?

The council has approved a large commercial development next to our home and we were never told about it. It will bring traffic, noise and shadowing. Is it too late to do anything, and how could we have been involved?

We bought a section with a small stream running through it and would like to build a house near the water. Someone told us there are special rules and that we may need to leave a large strip of land empty. What restrictions could apply?

We received a letter from a government agency saying that part of our property may be needed for a new road. We do not want to sell and are worried about the compensation. What are our rights? I would like to know what steps I should take next to protect myself.

We are planning a subdivision on land near a river that seems to have cultural significance. The council mentioned consulting with local iwi. How does this work and can iwi block our project? Nobody has given me a straight answer and I want to understand where I actually stand.

I planted a small block of native trees a few years ago and a friend suggested that I could earn carbon credits. Are there legal requirements, and what risks are there if I later want to clear or sell the land?

The property next to ours runs a business that regularly sends dust and strong-smelling smoke over our house. We cannot open our windows and my child’s asthma has worsened. We have asked politely, but nothing changes. Who can we complain to?

The council sent me a notice saying that a tree in my garden is a hazard and must be removed. I love the tree and I think it is healthy. Can they force me, and can I challenge it? I want to make sure I am not missing anything important before I decide what to do.

A company has applied to establish a large industrial site near our community and many residents are concerned about noise and traffic. I have seen that submissions are open. How do I make a submission, and does it actually make a difference?

A proposed quarry project near our home is being considered under the fast-track process, and residents have heard that we may not get a say. How does the fast-track consenting process work and can we still participate?