Planning, building and the environment

Planning

The planning system controls what can be built and where. Communities and Local Government sets national planning policy - ensuring that people have decent affordable homes in well-designed accessible environments while protecting the countryside.

We are currently working to streamline the system making it simpler, faster and more accessible. We are also getting communities more involved and encouraging more public participation.

Most new buildings, changes to existing buildings or the local environment need planning permission. Planning applications are usually dealt with by your local authority. Local councils also prepare draft plans for their area.

Appeals against refusal of planning permission and inquiries are dealt with by the Planning Inspectorate. Visit www.planning-inspectorate.gov.uk (external link).

Many types of building work will require separate permission under building regulations.  

There is a one-stop source of information on our Planning Portal (external link). It includes advice on planning permission, online applications and guidance on how the system works.

You can also find more information about planning applications and development plans on www.direct.gov.uk (external link).

Some publications you may find useful are:

  • Planning: A Guide for Householders - a simplified guide to planning issues that householders are likely to encounter.
  • Creating better places to live: a guide to the planning system in England which explains how you can get involved in improving your own surroundings. Find out how planning affects you, your family, friends and community.
  • Planning Permission: A Guide for Business - basic information for businesses on when you need planning permission, how to make an application and what happens afterwards.
  • A Householder's Planning Guide for the Installation of Antennas, including Satellite Dishes which explains the regulations on numbers sizes and positioning of antennas.

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