The Otago Regional Council has released an updated Residential Earthworks Guide to help landowners, developers, contractors and builders carry out earthworks responsibly and reduce environmental risks.

The guide focuses on working near waterways, where sediment, runoff and other impacts can quickly affect water quality and local ecosystems. It outlines what activities are permitted, the rules that apply, and the steps people can take to avoid environmental damage and costly clean-ups.

Otago Regional Councillor Andrew Noone says the goal is to help people get things right from the start. Rather than fixing problems after they happen, the focus is on preventing issues before they occur and protecting the region's waterways and natural environment.

The council is encouraging anyone planning earthworks to use the guide and get in touch for advice if they're unsure about the rules. The updated guide is available on the Otago Regional Council website.

In this episode, we chat with Councillor Andrew Noone about why the guide has been updated, the common mistakes people make, and how simple planning can help protect Otago's environment for future generations.