Planning permission for householders

Planning permission may be required for a wide variety of development. This includes:

  • new building works
  • altering or adding to buildings
  • changing the use of land or buildings

However, there are many kinds of changes for which householders do not need to apply for planning permission. This is known as permitted development. In some cases, you will still need to apply for:

  • Building Regulations approval
  • approval to carry out works to protected trees
  • other forms of statutory consent (such as Listed Building Consent)
  • work in conservation areas

Further guidance on when is permission required? on GOV.UK.

You must ensure that all necessary consents are in place before carrying out any works.

For business and commercial development, find out about planning permission for businesses.

Step by step navigation

  1. Self-assessment for householder planning permission

    Assess if you need to apply for planning permission.

  2. Lawful Development Certificates

    An LDC would confirm if your development is lawful or does not need planning permission.

  3. Guidance documents for householder developments

    Download detailed guidance for householder developments.