How to apply for planning permission September 23, 2022 When you want to extend your house, build an office in the garden, or construct a new property, planning permission will probably be required. If your project involves the addition of an extension or a new outbuilding, you'll either need to apply for planning permission or rely on a set of rules called "permitted development rights" if it falls within certain size and type limits. Before you submit an application, you should learn how the planning system works. It's important, too, to learn about the different types of applications available, each with its own set of requirements and restrictions. What is Planning Permission? Planning permission is given by local authorities to people who want to build a new building or make changes that are not allowed under the existing planning scheme. Building a new home or making extensive alterations to an existing one typically requires a permit. Planning permission is granted or denied in accordance with national planning regulations and the local authority's planning policy. What are the Different Types of Planning Permission? There are several types of planning permission, each best suited to certain projects and builds. They include: Full planning permission It grants you the right to build a project, but it is conditional on your providing full details of your design and proving that the building meets all demanded conditions. Outline planning permission It gives you a general idea of whether or not the council would sanction your building project. It doesn't include any specifics in terms of design, but it does provide "permission in principle". Householder planning permission This legal document issued by local authorities allows changes to be made to an individual house. What is the cost of planning permission? If you scrimp on the planning application process, you’re playing a dangerous game. Accurate survey drawings and correct technical information are crucial to getting permission for a project, as well as building it successfully once you have that permission. It might save you some money to cut corners on getting consent, but if there are errors that make the property unbuildable or unsaleable, it could cost more in the long run. What Should I Consider Before Applying for Planning Permission? If you are planning on creating or substantially changing a structure that will be used for living purposes (such as converting an attic into a bedroom or adding another room to your home or building), then it is likely that you need approval from the local government. Major alterations or additions to a building, or construction of new buildings on land designated for development (such as in a new housing estate), are likely to require planning permission. Filling in an application with a local council You can complete the application for planning permission and building control online using Planning Portal. In order to complete a planning application and submit it to the council, you will have to provide supporting information for your building/development project including: - The site and location plan. - An ownership certificate showing your ownership of property. - Agricultural holdings certificate. - The application fee. After you submit and pay the application fee, you will receive a receipt by email. The Planning Portal fee calculator can give you a better idea of the application cost for your project. How long does planning permission take? It can take up to eight weeks for your application to be approved, although more complex schemes may require additional processing time. The developer's agent will notify local residents of the application and provide them with a copy of the plans. During the public consultation process, which typically lasts between three and eight weeks, local authorities consult with agencies such as their Highways department and if necessary the Environment Agency. If you have to make multiple applications in order to get approval for your design, allow 18 months for this process. Do I need advice from qualified builders? Having a property that is outdated or in bad condition can be frustrating and disappointing. A property that is in poor condition can also be difficult and expensive to maintain. If you have a property that needs renovating, our team at Substructure Developments Ltd can help. Working in areas including Maidenhead, Windsor, and Ascot, our team of skilled and experienced tradesmen will complete all work to the highest standard. We always ensure that our clients are happy with the end result. You can get in touch with us by either sending an email to substructure1@sky.com or you can use our contact form and we will be happy to help. You can also give us a call on numbers 07834 617 743 or 07368 483779 for any assistance you require.
