What Is Planning Permission?

Planning permission grants you legal authority from your local council to make changes to your property. This ensures the proposed development aligns with local laws, environmental considerations, and aesthetic values of your community.

Reasons Why Planning Permission Is Necessary

Community Impact

When modifying your property, changes can affect the community at large, including your neighbours. Planning permission helps assess whether your proposed development could create unintended consequences for the environment, infrastructure, or the people around you.

Preserving Historical Areas

Properties located in conservation areas or listed buildings have stringent planning requirements to maintain their historic value and character. Making alterations without approval in these settings can result in severe penalties.

Safety Compliance

Building projects need to adhere to safety regulations. Planning permission ensures that the project follows all applicable building standards and minimizes risk for future homeowners or tenants.

Easier Property Sale

If you decide to sell your property, prospective buyers will need evidence that any alterations were done with proper approval. Lack of planning permission can complicate sales and may deter buyers.

Consequences of Not Getting Planning Permission

Failing to get planning permission can lead to:

• Enforcement notices, which may require you to undo the work.
• Issues with property sales, as unauthorised works could cause legal complications.

Common Projects Requiring Planning Permission

Projects such as fences over 2 metres, garden rooms, and garage conversions often require specific planning approval. Learn more about these specific cases in our comprehensive Planning Playbook.

Why Do I Need Planning Permission On My Own Land?

Although planning permission might seem inconvenient, it ensures that development is fair, safe, and beneficial to the community. Always consult your local planning authority before starting any major changes to avoid unnecessary risks.

For more guidance on planning permission requirements, be sure to explore our full Planning Playbook.