Planning permission
Planning permission is required for new developments such as external work and changes of use under specific circumstances. Internal works do not require planning permission and some work is classed as ‘permitted development’ and can go ahead without planning permission.
Time limits on breaches of planning permission
Most building work becomes lawful in planning terms after four years. This also applies to a change of use to a house. Otherwise it takes development, including other changes of use, 10 years to become lawful.
If you have carried out work without planning permission, you can either apply retrospectively or, if it was done over four years ago, apply for a certificate of lawfulness. This ensures that the Council cannot take enforcement action if the works are deemed lawful.
Letters of comfort are not issued for planning permission and formal applications for planning permission or certificates of lawfulness are required if legal documentation is required.