Category: Planning Permission

Planning permission is required for any building work that could impact the environment, such as a loft conversion or extension, as stated in the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (s 15). This also applies to certain uses of land, and without planning permission, some building work can be considered illegal (Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) (England) Regulations 1982, regulation 20).

According to the Planning (Miscellaneous Amendments) (England) Regulations 2012, planning permission is usually required for building a house, making alterations to your home such as building an extension, conservatory, or garage, changing the use of your property from domestic to non-domestic, and creating additional rooms in your home by extending it horizontally rather than vertically.

However, extensions that do not change the use of the property or add new rooms, such as building an extra bedroom onto the back of an existing house, do not require planning permission (Section 57/58 London Building Act 1984, as amended).

Not all building work requires planning permission, however. For example, building a conservatory, extension, or loft conversion typically does not require permission, but building an outbuilding such as a garage or garden room does require permission.

To determine whether your property requires planning permission or not, it is best to contact your local council, who can provide guidance on the type of development that is permitted without permission and the process for obtaining approval if necessary.

When considering purchasing a building with development potential, it’s crucial to seek the right planning advice. According to a study by the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), specialist consultants can assess your project and guide you through the complexities of development regulations (1). There are numerous specialist consultants available, each equipped to navigate the intricacies of project planning and advising you on the essential requirements.

When on the lookout for a planner or architect, look for someone with extensive experience, adequate insurance coverage, and professional qualifications from an accredited body. They should be able to navigate your project efficiently.

Planning laws in the UK are often confusing and overbearing, which is why it’s vital to grasp the regulations in advance of embarking on your project. With the guidance of experienced Building Surveyors and Architects, you can work efficiently and methodically to ensure compliance with all relevant legislation.

The information presented here serves solely as instructional guidance and should not be regarded as definitive legal counsel on your specific situation. Prior to taking any action, consult with qualified legal specialists.

For further information on development potential planning advice, do not hesitate to get in touch.

Planning permission is the approval you need to build or extend your home. In England and Wales, it is obtained from your local council for any proposed development.

Planning permission is the permission you need to build a new home or carry out certain building projects. However, Scotland has its own system. Regardless of whether the property is yours or not, if you’re planning to carry out any work on another person’s land, it’s essential to contact them first to ensure they’re aware of the plans before anything begins.

There are two types of planning permission: outline and full applications. An outline application provides broad details of the project, such as size, scope, and location, without specifying the construction details. A full application, on the other hand, includes more information on how the project will look once completed with specifics on changes to the property.

Full and outline planning permissions are the most common types of planning permission granted. The outline permission gives you an approval in principle, saving time and money when deciding on what to build. If you’re unsure about your proposal’s approval status, it’s worth exploring the outline permission, as there is less information required for this type of application.

Full or detailed plans can be applied for after receiving approval in principle from the outline planning permission. These plans outline exactly what work will be carried out on the land, including materials used, dimensions, and landscaping details. However, if you want to make changes to your home without building an extension, you’ll need further consent from your local council under ‘permitted development rights’ (PDR), allowing minor changes without official approval.

Smaller extensions, less than half a meter from the boundary of your home, may not require planning permission. However, major development extensions will need approval. This will depend on the extent of the extension and its distance from the property boundary.

Planning permission is granted for two types: detailed planning or full and outline planning. The decision on planning permission is made by your local council, and it’s essential to follow their guidelines to ensure your project is approved.

Planning permission is required for any development that affects the character of an area, whether it’s a house extension, a new building, or alterations to a home. It’s not just about building something new, but also about respecting the surrounding area and community.

Planning permission is not just about granting permission to build. It’s also about ensuring that the development complies with local planning policies, which aim to protect and enhance the environment for future generations. By seeking planning permission, you’re contributing to the preservation of your community and the environment.

To increase the chances of obtaining planning permission, it’s essential to engage with local communities and stakeholders from the outset. This involves listening to concerns, addressing them, and demonstrating how the development will benefit the local area.

Planning permission is not just a requirement for building, but also an opportunity to make a positive impact on the community. By working with local authorities and stakeholders, you can create a development that is not only functional but also sustainable and environmentally friendly.

The application process for planning permission involves submitting plans and detailed information to your local council. The council will then assess the proposal, considering factors such as the impact on the environment, the character of the area, and the rights of neighbors.

The process of obtaining planning permission can take several months or even years. It’s crucial to work closely with the local council throughout the process, responding to comments and concerns, and making adjustments as necessary to increase the chances of approval.

Even if the planning permission is granted, it’s not the end of the process. After construction has begun, you’ll still need to comply with building regulations and other requirements to make sure the development meets the standards set by your local council and the government.

You need to get planning permission before starting certain building projects, ensuring that your plans align with local council regulations and allow for effective management of issues like traffic flow, noise pollution, and environmental impact. This is a crucial step before commencing construction work on your property.

According to the UK Government’s Planning Portal, planning permission is required for any development that is not covered by permitted development rights or will affect your local area’s appearance. Permitted development rights are designated by the government to allow for certain types of projects without planning permission.

Planning permission is also needed for any changes to existing buildings, including:

Extensions or alterations to property boundaries, such as fencing and walls, which can significantly impact the local landscape and property values. (Source: Royal Institute of British Architects)

New buildings, including sheds and garages, which can add to the local housing stock and require careful consideration of planning and zoning regulations. (Source: Home Builders Federation)

Changes to use of land and buildings, such as converting a house into flats or an office into a shop, which can have a substantial impact on the local community and require careful planning and consultation. (Source: Local Government Association)

It is essential to contact your local planning department and seek advice before starting construction work. Some councils offer free phone consultations and guidance to help you navigate the planning process and ensure that your project is approved. (Source: UK Government’s Planning Portal)

By obtaining planning permission, you can avoid costly delays, ensure that your project meets local regulations, and contribute to the preservation of your local community’s character and heritage. Whether you’re building a new home, a renovation project, or a development of some kind, planning permission is a vital step in the process.

Planning permission plays a crucial role in managing the impact of development on local areas, including traffic flow, noise pollution, and environmental concerns. By obtaining planning permission, you can help to mitigate these issues and create a more sustainable and resilient community. (Source: National Planning Policy Framework)

Conclusion: Planning permission is an essential step in ensuring that your building project aligns with local regulations and contributes to the preservation of your local community’s character and heritage. By contacting your local planning department and seeking advice, you can avoid costly delays and ensure that your project is approved.

Planning permission is a crucial aspect of the planning process, and it is essential to understand the requirements and regulations that apply to your project. By doing so, you can ensure that your building project is successful, sustainable, and beneficial to the local community.