Apply for planning permission
All development needs planning permission. 'Development’ usually means most building works, and some changes of building use. You can read a full definition of what 'development' is in Section 55 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (external website).
You're responsible for getting planning permission for any development that you want to do. If you do any works without getting planning permission first, there's a risk that we might take enforcement action against you.
Find out if you need planning permission
There are some types of work that you can do without planning permission. We offer a free online service to check whether you need planning permission.
What to do before you apply for planning permission
The planning process can be hard to understand. Before you start making your application, you should read the guidance on this page and our guidance on how to prepare a valid application.
You can also look at our planning FAQs for answers to commonly asked questions, and the planning glossary for definitions of confusing words. If you read the guidance on these webpages, you'll find it easier to apply for planning permission.
We'd like to hear your feedback on whether this webpage meets your needs. To leave feedback or for more information, email us your comments.
Page last updated: 27 September 2022
