Planning Permission

If your house plot does not have planning permission, you will need to decide whether to apply for outline planning consent or full planning permission.

Outline Planning Permission (OPP)

If you're unsure whether full planning permission will be granted, outline planning permission is a way of 'testing the water' without having to spend money on detailed plans and drawings. Outline planning permission gives an indication of permitted development, such as the height and footprint of the building and is subject to a condition that full planning details will need to be approved before building can commence. OPP is valid for up to five years but you will have just three years to apply for Detailed Planning Permission.

Detailed Planning Permission (DPP)

Detailed planning permission must be submitted within three years of outline planning permission. Detailed designs should be submitted in order to gain approval to build. Building must commence within 2 years.

Full Planning Permission (FPP)

Full planning permission is a combination of outline planning consent and detailed planning consent - with all detailed information submitted in a single application. This will save you time, but if it's refused you will have wasted money on producing plans and drawings. However, you can minimise the risks involved by taking expert advice beforehand. Full Planning Permission is valid for five years from the date of consent.

Listed Building Consent

If you plan to build a new house with the curtilage of a listed building (i.e within its grounds) you must apply for listed building consent in addition to planning permission. There is no fee for this consent.

Planning Application Process

Planning application forms are available from your local council, along with any guidance on the information it expects you to provide. It is often a good idea to meet a planning officer for an informal discussion before you proceed - you will not be charged for this.

1. Contact the planning department of your local planning authority; tell them what you plan to do and ask for their advice. You should also ask if they foresee any difficulties which could be overcome by amending your proposal.
2. Decide on the type of application you wish to make and request an application form.
3. Submit your application with the correct fee and supporting documents.
4. The local planning authority will acknowledge your valid application or request any missing documents.
5. The local planning authority will publicise and consult on the application.
6. The application will then be considered by a Planning Officer or Committee and permission will be granted, granted with certain conditions or refused.