Borough of Telford & Wrekin

Planning Permission

How do I find out if planning permission is needed?

 

Planning permission is normally required for development. However, the government has designated that certain types of development do not require permission. Such work is called 'permitted development'. Whilst there are permitted development rights affecting many types of development, such as agriculture and industrial buildings, the most common query is in respect of work to dwellings.

The most common examples of permitted development are small rear extensions to existing dwellings, garden sheds, greenhouses, and fences and walls of a specified maximum height.

Permitted development often depends on:

  • the size;
  • position and height of the proposed building;
  • whether any previous works have been done to the building: and
  • proximity to highways.

The council offers a pre-application service and a "Householder development planning questionnaire" would need to be completed to determine if planning permission is needed or not. A number of leaflets that set out permitted development rights have been produced and these can be obtained from Darby House reception.

You can also find out more about the rules that govern whether planning permission is required on the Planning portal or obtain a copy of the DCLG publication "Planning - A guide for householders".

When any development is proposed, you should always contact the Building Control section to check whether you need to submit a Building Regulation Application. Building Regulations approval can often be needed where Planning Permission is not required. You can contact them on 01952 384555 or email Building Control

The Planning Service also wants to ensure that buildings and facilities in the Borough are fully accessible to people with disabilities. These requirements are covered by the Disability Discrimination Acts. Detailed information on this can be found on the Government website or the Disability Rights Commission web site.

If you want independent advice on a planning matter, Planning Aid offers a voluntary advice service on town planning matters to community groups and individuals who cannot afford to employ a planning consultant.

For more information about Planning Aid see the RTPI web site at http://www.rtpi.org.uk/about-the-rtpi/planning-aid/.

Useful links:

Antenna guide
Householder guide
Volume calculator



Get Adobe Reader - link opens in a new window

Please note - Some documents published before 1st December 2006 may contain incorrect contact numbers.
.
For up to date contact numbers please refer to the Guide to Council Services.