Applying for Planning Permission
There are a number of ways to apply for planning permission. Forms are available from your local authority planning offices and often their websites.
Broadly speaking, there are two main kinds of application:
Outline
For a new building, you may be able to make an outline application to find out whether the development is acceptable in principle. This usually means that detailed drawings are not needed. However, the council can require additional information, or insist that a particular application be made as a full application.
If outline permission is granted, you will need to get approval of the details (known as ‘reserved matters’) before work can start. These comprise citing, design, external appearance, means of access and landscaping. What you propose must be consistent with the outline permission. If your proposal changes, you may be asked to start again with a fresh application.
Full
A full planning application requires the submission of all details of the proposal. It would be appropriate if you wish to change the use of land or buildings, or if you want to start work quickly.
You can use the Planning Portal’s online service to find out what sort of planning permission you need and apply for it online.
Apply for planning permission online.