Do I need planning permission?
Before starting a new project to improve, extend, or change your home, business, or land, you will need to find out if planning permission is required.
- Visit the Planning portal - interactive guide to find out if you need planning permission for common building projects for houses, flats and shops
- Check the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015. This is the principal order which sets out the requirements for planning permission for all types of development. This legislation is regularly amended and updated
- View the technical guidance on permitted development rights for householders for more detailed advice on householder PD rights. This guidance is for householders only and does not apply to flats, maisonettes, businesses, or other land
- The need for planning permission is defined by Permitted Development (PD) rights and any restrictions to these rights.
Planning permission or building regulations?
Planning permission and building regulations are separate requirements. Many building works that do not need planning permission will need building regulations. Other than for listed buildings, most internal works to flats, maisonettes and houses do not need planning permission but may need Building Regulations.
Restrictions to permitted development
It is important to note that there may be restrictions on your property that affect the need for planning permission. Designated areas, such as conservation areas, South Downs National Park* (SDNP), Sites of Specific Scientific Interest, Article 4 Directions and withdrawn permitted development rights can restrict the works you can carry out to your land or property. Further limitations apply for listed buildings.
As of 1st April 2026, the South Downs National Park are determining planning applications and all related matters for locations within their boundary. To check if your address falls within the SDNP area, you can use this map: SDNP - Do I live in the national park?
For queries and advice on whether you need planning permission, or to submit a 'Do I Need Planning Permission' (DINPP) form to the SDNP team, please contact them directly on [email protected] or visit their website: SDNP - Do I need planning permission?
Next steps:
- Visit our page on Permitted Development for further information on your rights and restrictions to these rights
- Apply for pre-application advice
- Apply for planning permission
