There are a number of rules which are applicable to all relevant activities within the District.
Standards regarding stormwater disposal, roadside planting and glare are intended for safety, especially on roads.
Signs are controlled in order to minimise any adverse effect on the environment and on the safe and efficient functioning of traffic. Generally only signs which are to be erected on the property to which they relate are permitted or discretionary. Other signs require an application for a non-complying activity so that the Council can consider whether the siting and design are appropriate.
If an activity involves the use of hazardous substances, extra control is required at the District Council level, although control is also exercised by the Regional Council and under the Dangerous Goods Legislation. In some cases, for example with the transport of hazardous substances, other levels of control are considered adequate to avoid, remedy or mitigate effects.
Controls regarding the use of roads ensure that there is no confusion as to what can take place on roads.
Special controls are required for buildings which might adversely affect the operational safety of the airport.
Standards for access and parking are required for all activities in order to protect the roading network as an essential means of communication and transport in Westland. Vehicles stationary on the road to load or park can detract from the safety of people on the road, and the absence or poor positioning of vehicle access can result in traffic conflict. In situations where the free flow of traffic is important, or for activities which have high traffic generating characteristics, on-site manoeuvring may be required. Council will encourage, in all situations where it is practicable to do so, the provision of property access from roads other than State Highways.
Where the number of parking spaces required cannot be provided on site, the Council will consider whether there are unusual aspects of the site or the activity which warrant granting resource consent. Joint use of facilities where the need for parking is generated at different times of the day, may be an acceptable solution.
Standards relating to intersections are designed to provide good visibility, accommodate vehicle manoeuvres and not adversely affect the free flow of traffic. Cross-roads situations should be avoided.
