If you think you need to apply for planning permission, contact your local council’s planning office or you can apply online by using the Planning Portal. They will tell you if you need planning permission. The council will give you an application form, advise on material to include with your application such as drawings and finally confirm the planning application fee. When applying for planning permission, you must include a block plan showing the boundary of the application site in red. It is always worth checking with your local council to find out whether you need planning permission for your project, and what is likely to be accepted. You can also check the governments planning portal to see restrictions. You’ll probably need planning permission if you want to do the following;
- build something new
- make a major change to your building, eg building an extension
- change the use of your building
If you do not make a planning application and continue with the work, then you could be served an “enforcement notice” this is ordering you to undo all the changes you have made without permission.
There are two types of planning permission. The first is outline planning permission, this grants permission in principle, but does not include design specifics. It is important to note that outline planning consent does not provide permission to start work. The second is full planning permission, this will grant permission for a project with a detailed design.