Planning and Building Regulation Applications

1. Planning Applications

Purpose:
To seek permission from the local planning authority (usually your local council) for development or changes in land/building use.

When Required:

• Building something new (e.g. a house, extension, garage)
• Major alterations to buildings
• Changing the use of a building or land (e.g. from residential to commercial)
• Some changes to listed buildings or properties in conservation areas

Considerations Include:

• The visual impact and design
• Impact on neighbours
• Environmental factors
• Local planning policies
• Access and parking

Types:

• Outline Planning Permission (to get agreement in principle)
• Householder Application (for small-scale works on a home)
• Full Planning Permission (for bigger projects)
• Listed Building Consent (for works to Listed buildings)
• Reserved Matters (to deal with details following outline approval)

Outcome:
You receive a decision: approved (possibly with conditions) or refused. You usually need this approval before starting work.

2. Building Regulation Applications

Purpose:
To ensure that construction work complies with Building Regulations for health, safety, structural integrity, energy efficiency, etc.

When Required:

• Most building work (e.g. extensions, conversions, structural alterations)
• Installing heating systems, replacing windows, or rewiring (in some cases)

What It Covers:

• Structural safety
• Fire safety
• Drainage and sanitation
• Electrical and gas safety
• Accessibility
• Insulation and energy performance
• And more!

Types:

• Full Plans Application (plans are submitted and approved before work starts)
• Building Notice (for simpler work – no pre-approval but subject to inspection)
• Regularisation (for work done without approval – a retrospective application)

Inspections:
Building Control officers will inspect the work at key stages to ensure compliance.

Outcome:
You receive a completion certificate once work meets all regulations.

Key Difference: