Building Regulations and Planning Permission

Visit the Planning Portal website to read about the difference between Building Regulations and Planning Permission.

What work is covered by Building Regulations?

If you want to build, alter or extend a building you will probably need to make a Building Regulations application. There are exemptions to Building Regulations. Read the 'Do you need permission?' guidance on the Planning Portal website to find out more.   

Guidance on making applications

Read the guidance on how to make a Building Regulations application and the Approved Documents. When working close to a boundary, make sure you are aware of your responsibilities under the Party Wall Act 1996. To make an application, you can either deposit Full Plans or give Building Notice (except for work where the building is to be put to a designated use under the Fire Precautions Act 1971 or The Workplace Health, Safety and Welfare Regulations 1992.) Designated  buildings include offices, shops, hotels, boarding houses and certain factory types.

Submitting Full Plans

For a Full Plans application, you need to submit scaled drawings, showing constructional details, floor plans and elevations. This application should be submitted in advance of the proposed start date. You can start work, at your own risk, as soon as the plans have been submitted. Our Building Control Surveyors will examine the plans within 3 weeks of the date of registration.

Giving Building Notice

We don't recommend that you give Building Notice, except for minor works. Contact us if you need advice.

Regularisation (approval for exisiting works)

If you have work which has been completed without Building Regulation Approval you may wish to 'regularise' it. You will need to supply drawings, showing the work carried out, and complete the Regularisation forms, below.

Fees and inspections

There are fees for all applications. We carry out pre application inspections to check the suitability. There is a charge for this inspection. This charge is deducted from your application fees if you go ahead.