Not all developments require planning permission. Some smaller projects fall under “permitted development rights,” which means you can proceed without formal planning permission. However, it’s essential to check if your project qualifies.

Before submitting a formal application, it’s often advisable to seek pre-application advice from your local planning authority. They can provide guidance on your proposal’s suitability and any potential issues.

If planning permission is required, you’ll need to prepare a detailed planning application. This typically includes architectural drawings, site plans, a written description of the project, and other relevant documents. Having a reliable and competent architect is worth its weight in gold!

Submit your planning application to the local planning authority responsible for the area where the development will take place. You can usually do this online through the planning portal or by mailing a physical copy. The timescales and process will vary from council to council. For standard dwelling applications it would be wise to account for an 8-13wk process, with more complex applications taking up to 18wks.

The planning authority may conduct a public consultation, allowing neighbours and other stakeholders to comment on your proposal. They will consider these comments when making their decision.

A planning officer will be assigned to your application. They will assess your proposal against local and national planning policies, taking into account various factors like the impact on the environment, local amenities, and design quality.

The local planning authority will make a decision within a specified timeframe (usually eight weeks for standard applications). They can either approve, refuse, or request modifications to your proposal.

If your application is refused, you can appeal the decision to the Planning Inspectorate. You’ll need to provide additional information and argue your case at an appeal hearing.

Even if you receive planning permission, you may still need to obtain building regulations approval for the technical aspects of your project. This ensures compliance with safety and construction standards.

Once you have planning permission and any necessary building regulations approvals, you can proceed with your development.