How to apply

Planning Permission 

Our application system covers a range of consents which can be applied for online. Multiple consents can also be applied for, for example full planning consent and listed building consent. Additional consent types are available as PDF downloads.

You must ensure you apply for the correct consent, otherwise your application will be invalid. We can provide some guidance in selecting the correct type, but it is also a good idea to check the consent type required with your local planning authority. They should also be able to advise about local constraints in the area where you’re proposing work and any other permissions that may be required.

Please note that building regulations approval is a separate matter from obtaining planning permission for your work.

View more information on planning consent types¹.

Read our application guidance to help you choose².

Building regulations approval

You must decide on the type of application for your works. There are three types of building regulations approval:

Full plans

This is the most detailed option. Decisions are usually made within five weeks. If your building work meets standards, you will receive a completion certificate within eight weeks of completion of the building work.

Read more about full plans applications³.

Building notice

A building notice is used for smaller projects. You can begin your alterations two days after your notice has been submitted to your building control body. Unlike full plans, you do not receive formal approval.

Read more about building notices⁴.

Regularisation

This is retrospective approval and is used for work that has already been carried out but without consent. You can only apply to your local authority building control for regularisation.

Read more about regularisation certificates⁵.

1. https://www.planningportal.co.uk/planning/planning-applications/consent-types
2. https://www.planningportal.co.uk/planning/planning-applications/application-guide
3. https://www.planningportal.co.uk/applications/building-control-applications/building-control/how-to-get-approval/pre-site-approval/full-plans
4. https://www.planningportal.co.uk/applications/building-control-applications/building-control/how-to-get-approval/pre-site-approval/building-notice
5. https://www.planningportal.co.uk/applications/building-control-applications/building-control/how-to-get-approval/pre-site-approval/regularisation