Planning FAQs

After you've received our decision

How long does my planning permission last?

Once planning permission has been granted, you usually have three years from the date of the decision notice to start the works. After this date, your application will be considered ‘expired’ and you would generally lose your right to undertake the works.

I have planning permission, when can I start work?

Before starting works, you must comply with any planning conditions. You should also get building regulations approval. If there are no conditions then you can start straight away. 

When do I have to complete the works?

In most cases, once you have started building there is no restriction on when these need to be completed. Certain permitted development rights, however, do have restrictions on when works must be completed.

What are planning conditions?

Planning conditions are requirements that must be met before works can begin. This will usually be submitting additional information to the council for approval. Conditions are listed in a decision notice. See the Planning Portal guide on conditions for more information.

How do I discharge, amend, or remove planning conditions?

To discharge, amend or remove planning conditions, you will need to submit an application for approval of details reserved by condition (ADRC) or an application for removal or variation of a condition (VCDN). You can submit these in the same way you'd submit any other application.

What if I’m unhappy with the decision?

If you're unhappy with the decision on your planning application, you can appeal the decision by applying to the Planning Inspectorate.

My neighbour wants to build houses in their garden, can I appeal against their application if they're successful?

No, only the applicant can appeal a planning decision. However, anyone can comment on a planning application during the determination process. All comments are taken into account by the case officer in their decision.

Page last updated: 18 July 2024