It is a common misconception to state a development does not require planning permission. It is more accurate to state that some development does not require the express grant of planning permission by the Local Planning Authority. There are therefore two routes to securing planning permission:
- By way of a general permission granted by the Secretary of State, or a Local Development Order (LDO); or
- By way of a grant of permission upon application to the Local Planning Authority or subsequent appeal.
The need to make an application will depend on what you propose to do. Most domestic alterations, extensions and outbuildings will not generally need permission from the Council. Some commercial projects and changes of use may also not need an application to be made, although prior approval of specific matters may be necessary.
The display of an advert may require consent, whilst in some areas you may require consent for works to trees, listed buildings or demolition of walls and buildings. The temporary use of land or buildings can also require permission.
Further guidance on whether you need to apply for permission can be viewed here, whilst we offer a pre-application advice service for proposals requiring planning permission.