Do I need planning permission?
If you’re planning to develop your home or commercial premises, or to build within the district, then you may need planning permission. However, permitted development rights apply to many common projects.
For an informal view, complete one of our self-assessment forms below. These have been developed to assess whether or not you need planning permission. If you answer ‘yes’ to any question then planning permission is required and you should visit our planning process and services page for advice on what to do next.
The Planning Portal provides a number of interactive house guides regarding common projects, including information on what you’ll need to consider at each stage of your project.
There are no self-assessment forms relating to commercial development. If you require a formal view on whether a planning application is needed, for either commercial or householder development, you can apply for a lawful development certificate via the Planning Portal. This is a legal document and can be useful when you come to sell your home or business.
For all other proposals not covered by this advice, please visit our pre application service webpage.
Do I need consent for advertisement and signs?
Not all advertisements and signs require an application for advertisement consent. We would therefore recommend you take a look at the government guidance regarding outside advertisements and signs before submitting an application.
Planning permission self-assessment forms
Self Assessment form A - extensions amended (PDF File, 242kb)- attached to the dwelling. Includes conservatories, garages etc. and alterations to include windows, verandas, balconies
Self Assessment form B - outbuildings (PDF File, 237kb) - includes sheds, greenhouses and garages as well as other ancillary garden buildings such as swimming pools, ponds, sauna cabins, kennels, enclosures (including tennis courts) and containers for domestic heating
Self Assessment form C - porches (PDF File, 162kb) - on an external door of a house
Self Assessment form D - roof alteration (PDF File, 183kb) - includes additions or alterations to a roof including dormers, roof extensions, roof lights, reroofing. If you are intending to install or alter solar equipment (for example, solar panels), please use Self Assessment Form I.
Self Assessment form E - chimney flue vent pipe (PDF File, 159kb)
Self Assessment form F - hard standing kerb gate (PDF File, 189kb) - drives, hardstandings, walls, fences, gates, access, dropped kerbs, etc.
Self Assessment form G - microwave antenna_satellite dish (PDF File, 165kb) – satellite dishes
Self-Assessment Form H - add an additional storey(s) to my house (Class AA) (PDF File, 235kb)
Self Assessment from I - domestic renewable energy (solar on property) (PDF File, 227kb)- solar panels etc.
These forms do not tell you if you need Building Regulations approval, which comes under different legislation. You’ll find advice on this from our Local Authority Building Control Partnership, East Midlands Building Consultancy (EMBC).
Removal of permitted development rights
Be aware that some of your permitted development rights may have been removed as part of a previous planning application decision. This will mean that you have to submit a planning application for work which normally does not need one.
We're able to advise you whether or not permitted development rights have been withdrawn for a fee of £45 using our online form. A plan clearly showing the property extent must be provided. We aim to respond to you within 10 working days of receiving your enquiry.