A concrete driveway is an impervious surface, meaning rain can't soak through it, and Auckland Council limits how much impervious surface a site can have to manage stormwater runoff and reduce flooding risk.

If a new driveway would push your property over the permitted limit for your zone, you'll either need to reduce the impervious area, add on-site stormwater management, or switch part of the driveway to a permeable surface.

Stormwater rules at a glance

Slab Lab crew preparing and levelling the ground before a driveway pour

Why it's regulated

Every impervious square metre you add sends more rainwater into the stormwater network instead of soaking into the ground, which is why Council limits impervious surface per site.

Where water must go

Driveway runoff can't discharge onto a neighbouring property or into the sanitary sewer. It generally needs to go to the road kerb and channel or an approved on-site soakage system.

When permeable paving is needed

If your site already has significant impervious coverage, adding a standard driveway can push it over the threshold, in which case permeable paving keeps it compliant.

How permeable paving works

Open-jointed pavers or porous concrete are laid over a specially designed base that lets water filter down through the surface instead of running off.

We check this upfront

We assess your site's impervious coverage and drainage requirements as part of every driveway quote.

Slab Lab crew preparing and levelling the ground before a driveway pour

How permeable paving works

Permeable paving uses open-jointed pavers, porous concrete or similar surfaces laid over a specially designed base that lets water filter down through the surface and the base layers rather than shedding it off to the side. Auckland Council publishes construction and maintenance guides specifically for permeable pavement.

Freshly poured concrete forecourt in front of new white buildings

Get your site's stormwater requirements checked

Whether your driveway needs standard drainage, an on-site soakage system or permeable paving depends on your specific site and zone. We check this as part of every free quote.

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FAQ

Do I need permeable paving for my driveway in Auckland?

Only if a standard, fully impervious driveway would push your site over the impervious surface limit set for your zone under the Auckland Unitary Plan. This depends on how much impervious area your property already has.

Can my driveway drain onto my neighbour's property?

No. Driveway stormwater must not be directed onto a neighbouring property, and it can't be redirected into the sanitary sewer system either. It generally needs to go to the road kerb and channel or an approved on-site soakage system.

What is permeable paving?

Permeable paving is a surface, such as open-jointed pavers or porous concrete, laid over a specially designed base that allows rainwater to soak through and filter down through the base layers instead of running off. It's one of Auckland Council's accepted low-impact stormwater solutions.

Does a concrete driveway count as an impervious surface?

Yes. Standard concrete stops water soaking into the ground, so it counts fully towards your site's impervious surface area. This is one reason the biggest cost driver on a driveway is often the groundwork and drainage design, not the finish.

Who do I contact about stormwater rules for my driveway?

Auckland Council manages impervious surface and stormwater requirements under the Auckland Unitary Plan. We check your site's specific requirements as part of a free quote.

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“Used Slab Lab for a driveway at my business in Kumeu west Auckland. 5* service and fantastic finished job. Had this company referred by a friend and must say they lived up-to their promises. Great communication start to finish. Would 100% use them again.”

Elliot C.

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“Zak and Shane did amazing and expectional job on my driveway concrete. Highly recommended and high quality workmanship. On time and friendly team. Good job SlabLab. 5 stars.”

Jason T.

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“If you need a concrete driveway look no further!! I highly recommend. From my initial enquiry right through to completing our driveway, Zak and the team were very professional and proficient. Communication was on point, pricing was very competitive, and most importantly, they did a great job. A++”

Danny R.

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