Planning Advice and Queries

Do I Need Planning Permission?

Permitted Development

  • Some developments do not require planning permission – this is called permitted development. These developments can be undertaken without the need for you to make a formal application. The most common projects that can be considered to be permitted development can be found on the planning portal.
  • ‘However, where your proposal relates to a property in certain areas, for example, in a listed building, works to protected trees or a property with existing planning restrictions, then there may be additional considerations. It is therefore important to check if your property is affected by any of these. The Government has also published Technical Guidance regarding Permitted Development for Householders.’
  • Unfortunately, we are unable to formally advise you if your work will be considered permitted development without the submission of an application for a Lawful Development Certificate.
  • To obtain the pre-application advice on a potential Lawful Development Certificate submission, you can use our Pre-Application Advice Service.
  • Is your property affected by local restrictions?
  • Is your property a listed building? If so, you should be especially cautious when planning to carry out works on the property, as undertaking unauthorised works to a listed building could be a criminal offence. Find more information on our Listed Building page.
  • Is your property located within a conservation area? Your rights may be restricted. Go to our Conservation areas page.
  • If trees need to be removed or reduced, are they protected trees?
  • Get further information on our Tree Preservation Order Webpage.