Freedom camping reform has moved a step closer to implementation with the release of final regulations, Plumbers, Gasfitters, and Drainlayers (Self-Contained Vehicles) Regulations 2023. These regulations have been made under the Self-contained Motor Vehicles Legislation Act 2023, and are set to come into force from 7 December this year.
Read the Plumbers, Gasfitters, and Drainlayers (Self-Contained Vehicles) Regulations 2023.
Under the regulations, the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (PGDB) will become the Regulator of the self-contained vehicle system. The PGDB is building the Self-contained Vehicle Register (Register), and developing guidance for certification authorities, Vehicle Inspectors, and other stakeholders. The PGDB will also be making a technical notice relating to how vehicle inspections must be carried out.
The public, certification authorities, and local authority enforcement officers will have access to a centralised Register of self-contained vehicles. Different stakeholders will use the Register in different ways. For example, certification authorities will be able to add vehicles to the Register when satisfied a vehicle meets requirements; and local authority enforcement officers will be able to confirm a vehicle’s certification status for the purpose of considering whether to take enforcement action.
The PGDB will provide local authorities and prospective certification authorities with Register reference user guides and supporting training material leading up to 7 December 2023. The PGDB will also run Register awareness and training sessions. For more information, you can visit the PGDB website or email them at self.contained.vehicles@pgdb.co.nz .
The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) has updated its website with the latest changes.
In relation to this story, here are links to Freedom Camping (Penalties for Infringement Offences) Regulations 2023 and MBIE guidance released in June this year.