Planning permission and building regulations

Introduction

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 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.

Subjects covered in this guide

• Introduction
• What is planning permission?
• When do you need planning permission?
• Planning consent to change a building's use
• Planning consent to extend or alter a property
• Prepare to apply for planning permission
• Apply for planning permission
• Appealing against delayed or refused planning permission
• What are building regulations?
• Complying with building regulations

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