Do I need council consent for a deck in Nelson?

As a general rule in New Zealand, decks where the fall height is under 1.5 metres don’t require a building consent. If your design is higher or near a boundary, we’ll confirm the details and guide you through any council requirements.

Landscape Construction Nelson & Tasman

Q: What does landscape construction include?

Landscape construction covers the built elements of your outdoor space—such as decks, pergolas, patios, retaining walls, fencing, paving and drainage. It focuses on structural work rather than ongoing garden maintenance or planting.

Q: Do I need council consent for a deck or retaining wall in Nelson?

In some cases, yes projects may require building consent depending on height, location and engineering requirements. We will advise what applies to your project in Nelson & Tasman and can coordinate the consent process where needed.

Q: How much does landscape construction cost?

Costs vary based on scope, materials and site conditions. Smaller jobs may be a few thousand dollars, while larger builds are priced after a site visit. We provide a free consultation and a clear, itemised quote before work begins.

Q: How long does a typical project take?

Timeframes depend on the size and complexity of the build. Simple work can take a few days, while larger projects may run for several weeks. We confirm a realistic schedule at the consultation stage.

Q: What materials work best in Nelson & Tasman?

We recommend materials suited to local conditions—durable timbers and composites for decks, engineered solutions for Tasman clay and sloping sites, and robust fixings and finishes for coastal exposure. We’ll suggest the best options for your site and budget.

Q: My site is overgrown — can you help before construction starts?

Yes. Our one-off garden clean up service can clear overgrowth, remove waste and prepare the area so construction can begin smoothly.

Strong foundations are at the heart of great landscaping. From decks and pergolas to retaining walls, fences, and courtyards, our construction work is tailored to Nelson–Tasman conditions for lasting strength and style. Every project is built with care and precision, so your outdoor spaces not only look great but perform beautifully for years to come.

We specialise in landscape construction Nelson homeowners can rely on — creating structures that shape and define your outdoor areas. Whether it’s a new entertaining space, structural fencing, or detailed stonework, our focus is always on practical design, durable materials, and exceptional finish.

Decks & Pergolas

A well-built deck or pergola extends your home outdoors — giving you a welcoming space for family time, barbecues, or simply relaxing in the sun.

Our team are trusted deck builders in Nelson, experienced in creating custom decks, pergolas, and outdoor entertaining areas that fit seamlessly with your home and lifestyle.

Do I need consent for a deck in Nelson?
As a general rule, decks where the fall height is less than 1.5 metres don’t require consent. If your deck is higher than that, or sits near a boundary, we can help you navigate council requirements and design a structure that’s both safe and compliant.

Paths, Patios & Courtyards

From winding garden paths to paved courtyards, we design and build hard surfaces that connect your outdoor spaces and make them easy to enjoy.

Each project is carefully planned for drainage and flow, so every step feels natural and every surface performs well in Nelson’s climate.

How do I stop flooding on a paved patio?
Good drainage is key. We design patios and courtyards with gentle falls, channel drains, or permeable paving so rainwater runs away from your home rather than pooling on the surface.

Retaining Walls & Fences

Strong fences and retaining walls form the backbone of many landscapes. As experienced retaining wall and fence builders in Nelson–Tasman, we create solutions that are both structural and stylish — providing privacy, safety, and shape to your outdoor space.

Do I need consent for a retaining wall in Nelson?
Usually not if the wall is under 1.5 metres high and not supporting extra load. For anything taller or load-bearing (like a driveway or boundary), we’ll help you with the consent process and make sure your wall meets local standards.

Garden Beds & Planter Boxes

Planter boxes and raised garden beds add structure and greenery while keeping maintenance low. We design and build raised beds in Nelson that match your home’s style — from modern timber to rustic sleepers — making gardening easier and more accessible.

Are raised garden beds low-maintenance?
Yes. Raised beds improve drainage, reduce bending, and make it easier to control soil quality for healthier, low-maintenance planting.

Rock Walls, Stonework & Timber Features

Stone and timber bring texture, warmth, and timeless character to outdoor spaces. From handcrafted stone features to modern timber details, we create elements that complement your home and give your garden lasting style.

What’s the benefit of using natural stone in my garden?
Natural stone is long-lasting, weather-resistant, and blends beautifully with both modern and traditional landscapes — adding a sense of permanence and quality to your space.

Drainage & Runoff Solutions

Managing water well is essential in the Nelson–Tasman climate. Our team designs practical drainage and slope-management systems that protect your property from erosion and flooding — keeping your outdoor areas safe, functional, and easy to maintain.

What’s the best way to manage slope runoff in Nelson?
Every section is different. Options can include retaining walls with built-in drainage, channel drains, or contouring the land to direct water safely away. We’ll assess your site and recommend the most effective solution.

Built for Nelson & Tasman

We focus on landscape construction Nelson homeowners can trust — work that’s strong, durable, and designed for local conditions. Each project is carefully planned and built to suit your site and lifestyle, so your outdoor spaces stay beautiful and functional for years to come.

Ready to Start Your Project?

From concept to construction, we’ll help you design and build outdoor spaces that work beautifully for your home and lifestyle. Call 021 121 1006 for a free landscaping consultation in the Nelson & Tasman region.

Landscape Construction FAQs for Nelson & Tasman

What does landscape construction include?

Everything that gives your outdoor space structure — decks, pergolas, retaining walls, fences, paths, patios, and paved courtyards — all designed for Nelson–Tasman conditions.

Do I need council consent for a deck or retaining wall in Nelson?

Decks under 1.5 m high usually don’t need consent. Retaining walls over 1.5 m or those supporting extra load generally do. We’ll confirm this for your property and help with the council process.

How much does landscape construction cost?

Pricing depends on the design, site access, and materials. After a site visit, we’ll provide a clear estimate with transparent, charge-up billing.

How long does a typical project take?

Timeframes vary with size and weather, but we’ll map out a start date, milestones, and completion timeline so you know what to expect.

What materials work best in Nelson & Tasman?

We recommend durable, low-maintenance options suited to our climate — treated timbers, quality fixings, locally sourced stone, and paving designed with proper falls and drainage.

My site is overgrown — can you help before construction starts?

Yes. We can clear, level, or regrade your site and set correct levels so the construction phase runs smoothly. You can also garden clean up service to see how we prepare and refresh outdoor spaces before new landscaping begins.

Talk to Our Team

Sherlock Landscaping | Nelson, Tasman

Book Your Free Landscaping Consultation
Phone: 021 121 1006
Email: service@sherlocklandscaping.co.nz
Location: 11 Poutama Street, Richmond 7020