Bylaws Under Review
Local bylaws under review: 2026-2027
NOTE: Council is not currently seeking community feedback on the bylaws under review, but is preparing for public consultation in early 2027.
Why is this happening?
In early 2026, South Waikato District Council set out to review all local bylaws to ensure they were up to date with modern rules and are in alignment with any recent Government legislative changes.
Council is reviewing the following bylaws in two phases/priorities:
| Review One Bylaws | Review Two Bylaws |
| Cemeteries Bylaw | Bylaws Administration Bylaw |
| Freedom Camping Bylaw | Cultural and Recreational Facilities Bylaw |
| Land Transport Bylaw | Dog Control Bylaw |
| Public Places Bylaw | Hostels Bylaw |
| Trade Waste Bylaw | Keeping of Animal, Poultry and Bees Bylaw |
| Water Supply Bylaw | Property Maintenance and Nuisance Bylaw |
| Prostitution Location and Signage Bylaw | |
| Solid Waste Management and Minimisation Bylaw |
Read the full report tabled at the 30 July 2026 Council Meeting:
View all of Council's current bylaws here:
What are the next steps?
Review One Bylaws
Council has identified the priority bylaws (below) and will firstly seek direct feedback from key stakeholders as part of our standard pre-engagement activity. Once this process has been completed, staff will then prepare to go out for public consultation on the following bylaws, likely from early 2027:
Council is reviewing the following water services bylaws to align with new requirements under the Local Government (Water Services) Act 2025, and as part of the Waikato Waters Limited (CCO), in partnership with shareholding Councils:
Given that stormwater services remain with Council, the development of a Stormwater Bylaw is necessary to ensure effective urban stormwater management systems are in place, and water quality of our natural environment is maintained and enhanced. Staff are currently working on a draft stormwater bylaw while preparing for pre engagement with key stakeholders.
- Storm Water Bylaw
Public engagement activities will be available via the usual channels, and Your Voice.
Review Two Bylaws
The second group of priority bylaws will be addressed after the first phase is complete.
More updates to come.
