Questions for lawyers Found 20

A spill from our business site went into a stormwater drain and reached a nearby stream. We cleaned it up, but the council has started an investigation. How serious is this, and what penalties are possible?

We have received a notice that a decision on our resource consent has been appealed to the Environment Court. We have never been involved in anything like this. What is the court, how does it work and do we need a lawyer?

Construction work next door begins very early and includes loud machinery and weekend activity. We have asked the builders to stop, but they say they are allowed to work. What limits apply to construction noise?

We have been collecting shellfish and fishing on the coast, and a stranger said I was over the limit and that rules vary by area. I do not want to get in trouble. What rules should I check and what happens if I breach them?

While clearing scrub on our lifestyle block, we discovered nesting birds and what looks like a rare lizard. A friend warned that disturbing them could be a criminal offence. What should we do and what does the law say?

We have a low, boggy area on our farm that floods sometimes, and we want to drain and fill it to make it usable for grazing. A neighbour mentioned that wetlands are strictly protected these days. Is that true, and could we be fined for doing this work?

I received an abatement notice from the regional council about earthworks on my property, saying I must stop work immediately. I did not think I needed any consent. What does this mean and can I dispute it?

I run a small dairy farm and I am confused about what rules apply to effluent, stock access to streams and taking water for irrigation. Some of the requirements seem to keep changing. Where do I find the correct obligations?

I want to build a raised deck and remove a large old tree on my section. A neighbour warned me that I might need a council permit and could be fined if I do it without one. How do I find out what approvals are actually required?

While buying a rural property we discovered that it was once used to store agricultural chemicals and the soil may be contaminated. The seller says it is our problem after settlement. Who is legally responsible for cleanup and what should we do before proceeding?