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How to Get Planning Permission: Your Step-by-Step Guide in the UK

    How to get planning permission
    Planning committee assessing how to get planning permission

    How to Get Planning Permission: Your Step-by-Step Guide in the UK

    Estimated reading time: 15 minutes

    Key Takeaways

    • Understand what planning permission is and why it’s crucial for your UK project.
    • Learn the difference between Full and Outline planning permissions.
    • Follow a detailed, step-by-step guide through the planning permission process.
    • Discover tips to boost your chances of planning approval.
    • Find out what to do if your planning application is refused.

    Table of Contents

    Planning a new extension for your home? Dreaming of opening a new business on the high street? If so, the first thing you’ll need to conquer is knowing how to get planning permission. In today’s fast-changing world, being able to navigate the planning permission process can be just as thrilling as breaking ground on your brand new project. Whether you’re a homeowner with big plans or an aspiring entrepreneur, this detailed guide will take you through the complete process—step by step—so you can achieve your goals with confidence.

    What Is Planning Permission?

    Planning permission is the official consent you need from your Local Planning Authority (LPA)—usually your local council—if you want to build something new, make a major change to a building, or change the use of a property. Getting this permission is the gateway to making your dreams a reality, but it’s also a process shaped by rules, paperwork, and public participation. Let’s break it down, piece by piece.

    Curious to know more? Read the government’s detailed guidance: Making an Application — gov.uk

    Types of Planning Permission: Full vs. Outline

    Before you even pick up a pen to fill out an application, you’ll need to know which type of planning permission best suits your project. There are two main types:

    1. Full Planning Permission – This is what you’ll need if you know exactly what you want to build, right down to the smallest detail. It covers everything in your proposal, so when approved, you’re good to go! Learn more about this from the UK government guidance.
    2. Outline Planning Permission – Not quite sure about the finishings or exact layout yet? An outline application checks if the general principle of your project is acceptable before you spend money on detailed plans. If approved, you’ll need to make another, more detailed, application later. Find all the details here: Outline Application — gov.uk

    Tip: Some small projects, like minor changes to the inside of your house, may not need planning permission at all! These fall under “permitted development rights.” Even so, always double check with your local planning department first.

    The Planning Permission Process: Step by Step

    It might seem daunting, but getting planning permission is a journey you can absolutely navigate—especially with the right guide.

    Step 1: Initial Assessment—Do You Need Planning Permission?

    Not every project requires formal planning permission. Before you get started, contact your local planning department. A quick consultation can save you weeks of wasted time and energy. Your local experts will tell you if your specific project needs approval or if it falls under permitted development.

    Source: Federation of Master Builders — Ultimate Guides

    For a comprehensive overview of the application process, you may also want to consult How to Get Planning Permission: Your Complete Step-By-Step Guide which covers timelines and costs in detail.

    Step 2: Prepare Your Application

    Once you know planning permission is required, it’s time to assemble everything you need:

    1. Identify Your Local Planning Authority (LPA)
      Every area in England and Wales is governed by an LPA. This is the organisation you’ll submit your plans to and who will make the decision on your application. Find your LPA here: gov.uk Planning Permission
    2. Complete the Right Application Form
      You can access the correct application form on your local authority’s website, or through the national Planning Portal. Forms vary, but all will ask for details about your project and property.
    3. Prepare Your Documentation
      You’ll need to include detailed plans (showing how your project will look and where it sits on your land), as well as other documentation like environmental reports, design statements, and sometimes specialist surveys. Check with your LPA for exact requirements.

      Full checklist here: Planning Portal – Required Documentation

    4. Calculate Your Fee
      Most applications require a fee, which varies depending on the size and nature of your project. The Planning Portal has a handy Guide to the Fees for Planning Applications in England.

    Step 3: Submitting Your Application

    Ready to go? You can submit your application in several convenient ways:

    • Electronically via the Planning Portal
    • Directly through your local council’s website

    Submitting online is usually quicker, and many LPAs now require it.

    Step 4: What Happens After You Submit

    Now for the waiting game—but there’s lots happening behind the scenes!

    1. Validation Check

    Your LPA will check to see if your application is “valid.” That means you’ve filled in everything and included all supporting documents. If anything’s missing, they’ll let you know and you’ll need to supply the correct items.

    Full process explained: RTPI – Application Process

    2. Formal Acknowledgement

    Once your application is valid, you’ll get a formal letter or email, along with a unique planning application reference number. This number will help you track progress and respond to any queries.

    More details: RTPI – What Happens Next

    3. Determination Timescales

    Now, the Local Planning Authority’s work begins! Here’s how long you can expect to wait:

    • 8 weeks for minor applications (like house extensions or small new buildings)
    • 13 weeks for major applications (like housing estates or big commercial projects)
    • 16 weeks for any application requiring a full Environmental Impact Assessment

    These are official target times, but actual timings can vary.

    For the official timetable, read: Government Guidance – Timelines

    For more in-depth insights on planning permission timescales and processes, consider visiting How to Get Planning Permission: Your Essential Step-by-Step Guide.

    Step 5: Public Consultation—Have Your Say!

    The planning process isn’t just about forms and fees—it’s about people. By law, the LPA must ask local residents and specialists for their views by:

    • Putting up site notices
    • Sending letters to your closest neighbours
    • Placing advertisements in local newspapers
    • Contacting specialist bodies like the Highways Agency or relevant Parish Council
    • Asking other council experts such as environmental or heritage officers

    This phase is your project’s moment in the local spotlight! Sometimes, passionate neighbours can raise concerns, or support your plans. The more open and clear your proposal, the better your chances of a positive outcome.

    Learn more: RTPI – Consultation

    What About a Change of Use?

    Are you looking to turn a residential property into a business, or vice versa? That’s where “change of use” applications come in. They have some special rules all their own.

    When Is a Change of Use Application Needed?

    You’ll need one if your project involves shifting a building from one official “use class” to another (for example, from a house to a cafe). The government’s use class system groups buildings into types, so any change outside these groups usually requires planning permission.

    Find out more: Harper James: Planning Permission for Change of Use

    Steps for Change of Use:

    1. Check Use Classes
      Figure out if your proposed change stays within the same use class, or needs approval.
    2. Gather Evidence
      Provide clear support for why the change works for the neighbourhood—think about things like local demand, parking, noise, and the impact on neighbours.
    3. Apply with the Usual Process, But Add Extra Details
      Your application will follow the standard steps described above, but with special focus on how the change will affect the local area. More on each step: Harper James – Step by Step Guide

    Don’t forget, some uses automatically have permitted development rights, so ask your LPA for early advice.

    Tips to Boost Your Chances of Planning Approval

    1. Talk Early to Your LPA
      Early conversations help clear up confusion and show you’re serious about making your project a good fit for the community.
    2. Be Transparent
      Make your plans easy to understand. Use clear drawings and, if needed, hire a professional architect or planning consultant.

      For inspiration on design and working with professionals, check out Rural House Design Ideas UK: Creating Your Dream Countryside Home.

    3. Be Aware of Timeframes
      Don’t schedule builders until you’ve secured permission. Delays do happen, and breaking the rules can lead to headaches, fines, and even demolition orders!
    4. Engage with Your Neighbours
      A simple chat can stop tensions before they start. Explain your plans, show your drawings, and ask for honest feedback.
    5. Mind Local Policies
      Every council has its own local development plan. Check these documents (usually online) for specific rules about design, parking, impact on light, and more.

    What Happens If You’re Refused?

    Sometimes, even the best-laid plans get a “no” from the council. Don’t panic! You have options:

    • Appeal the Decision: You can appeal to the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government. The government’s planning portal has instructions on how to appeal.
    • Revise Your Plans: Review the refusal notice carefully. Make the necessary changes and resubmit your application.

    For advice on dealing with refusals and appeals, especially in rural contexts, you might find our article on How to Build a Paragraph 84(e) Home in the Open Countryside useful.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Do I need planning permission to build a garden shed?

    Most small sheds are allowed under permitted development rights, but always check with your local council.

    What if I start building before getting permission?

    Building without consent is risky! If you’re found out, you might have to tear down your new addition, and you could face fines. Always get approval first.

    Can I track my application online?

    Yes! Once you get your reference number, most councils let you view progress, documents, and neighbour comments using their planning search tool.

    How long does planning permission last?

    Permissions typically last three years. If you haven’t started work by then, you’ll need to reapply.

    Top Resources for UK Planning Permission

    In Summary: How to Get Planning Permission

    The road to planning permission may seem long, but it’s a journey that opens doors to creativity, investment, and vibrant communities. By following the steps outlined above—from early research and consultation, through clear application and public engagement, to patient waiting—you can turn the vision for your new home, business, or community project into bricks and mortar reality.

    Remember, the first brick is always knowledge. Stay curious, consult the experts like Thomas Studio, involve your neighbours, and keep aiming high. Good luck—and happy building!

    For more guides like ‘how to get planning permission’, keep following our blog for the latest news, tips, and inspiration from the world of property and planning!