Applying for planning permission

You usually need planning permission if you are proposing building or engineering works or changing the use of buildings or land. You may also need consent if you want to display advertisements or signs, alter Listed Buildings or demolish buildings.

In addition to needing planning permission, most building work (including alterations) also requires approval under the Building Regulations.

"Please note that the Government has increased planning application fees by 35% for major applications and 25% for minor applications with effect from 6 December 2023. A link to the new fee schedule is attached below and the Planning Portal will update it's website and fee calculator in due course"

From 1 September 2014, some development will also now need to pay a charge, called the Community Infrastructure Levy, upon commencement of their development. The charge only applies to certain types and sizes of development, and in the majority of cases householder applications will not meet the triggers for CIL. CIL charges will be dependent on the size, use and location of the development. To find out more read our Community Infrastructure Levy pages.

The Planning Service routinely handles a large volume of applications and communications by email, post and telephone. Our webpages provide information on many aspects of our services, including how apply for planning permission and how to register a planning enforcement complaint. We would ask our customers to use this information to ensure your application or enquiry is handled as efficiently as possible.

To avoid any delay in the validation and registration of planning applications, all submissions should be made online via the Planning Portal. Whilst delays can be anticipated during peak periods, we will work with you to advise of any implications.