Your business may need to obtain planning permission from your local planning authority if you want to:
» build new premises
» extend or alter existing premises
» change the external appearance of a building
» change a building's use
Most significant building work must also comply with building regulations.
This guide sets out the circumstances in which you're likely to require planning permission and explains how to apply for it and make the
process as smooth as possible. It also covers the key requirements of building regulations.
What is planning permission?:
The planning system controls the use of land and what's built on it. It's enforced by local authorities.
Businesses may need to apply for planning permission in a range of circumstances - from building new premises to changing an existing
building's use.
Anyone can apply but if you don't own or only partly own the building or land, you must inform the other parties involved of your
intentions. Anyone with seven years or more left on a lease should also be informed.
There are two types of permission you may need - outline and full.
Outline permission
For a new building you can submit an outline planning application to check whether it's acceptable in principle. If granted, you then need
to get approval of the details (reserved matters) before you can go ahead with construction. Outline permission generally lasts for three
years (if you have not started to submit reserved matters before the three years is over, the permission expires).
Full permission
If you want to change the use of land or buildings or start work quickly, you should make a full application. If granted, work should start
within five years or you may need to reapply.
Remember that planning permission has nothing to do with how a building is constructed - this is governed by building regulations.
