Though there are a few schemes that are exempt planning and therefore are classes as permissible developments, most of the new buildings, major changes to existing buildings or to the local environment will need to obtain planning consent. Whether or not you are planning to extend upward, out, or downward, it is always a good idea to check with your local Council’s Planning Department as to whether you need to obtain planning permission before embarking on any kind of building project.
Sometimes it is a better idea to get a designer on board to see what is achieveable with just some simple changes you may achieve what you want rather than plung for the permitted development extension.
Determine if you need planning permission
You can use the Planning Portal to find out if you need planning permission. You can explore the interactive features and mini guides on the Planning Portal for guidance on many projects that require permission. There are two ways to determine if you need planning permission. You can use the self assessment forms based on the information you have about the proposal (no fee), or you may submit a certificate of lawfulness which allows you to be certain that the existing use of the building in question is lawful for planning purposes or that your proposal does not necessitate planning permission.
Self Assessment - I want to fill out a self assessment form (no fee)
The forms can be downloaded. Complete the form using instructions provided.
Complete a certificate of lawfulness
Applications for a lawful development certificate for a proposal or use development (£103) plus portal fees
Apply online through external link
Print Application forms
Guidance Notes (external)
Application for a lawful development certificate for an Existing use or operation activity including those in breach of a planning condition (£206) plus portal fees
Apply online through external link
Print Application Forms
Guidance Notes (external)
Pre Application Advice
In April 2019, the council changed the way that it delivers pre-application advice. The advice will be offered on a charged-for basis to agents, developers, and members of the public, while still offering free general advice over the telephone. A quality pre-application advice service is an important element of the overall planning. Charges for delivering the service cover the time and effort spent by the officers giving the advice and opinions in accordance with the guidance in the National Planning Policy Guidance (NPPG) and section 93 of the Local Government Act 2003.
