How to prepare a valid planning application

Prior approval or notification applications

What you need to submit with a prior approval application

Some types of development are automatically granted planning permission by the government, which means you do not need to submit a planning application. These works are called permitted development. 

Some types of permitted development require prior approval, which means you must apply to the council for approval before you begin the works.

Checklist of what you need to submit with your prior approval application

You should check The Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015 (external website) to make sure you have submitted all the details required by legislation.

You should also check the list of supporting documents to make sure you meet all requirements that are specific to the location of the development site and to the proposed development type.

For all prior approval and notification applications you must submit:

• a written description of the proposed development
• a location plan
• a site plan
• the Developer’s contact details, including email address if the developer is content to receive communication electronically
• the fee

Prior approval applications made under Class A (new dwelling houses on detached blocks of flats) or Class AA (new dwelling houses on detached buildings in commercial or mixed-use development) to an existing building that is 18m or more in height must be accompanied by a fire safety report in compliance with paragraph B4 (1) of Schedule 1 to the Building Regulations 2010 (S.I. 2010/2214)

For some other prior approval applications, you might need to give us more information. You can read more guidance about these applications below. 

For prior notification for telecommunications development

You must also submit an ICNRIP Certificate. Refer to further guidance on telecommunications applications (download). ^{(PDF, 53kb)} 

Prior notification in connection with temporary permitted development rights for large home extensions

You must also submit:

• photographs showing the development site and its relationship with neighbouring properties
• drawings showing the proposed floor plans, elevations and roof plan
• details of proposed methods for mitigating the impact on the amenity of neighbours where the development is likely to have an adverse effect on the quality of the air, noise levels in the area, and light to neighbouring properties
• details of actions to reduce disturbance due to substantial excavation or demolition works, construction works, and prevent damage to trees

Prior notification for proposed demolition

You must also submit:

• a Demolition Method Statement
• photographs of the existing building

Page last updated: 31 May 2023