Daily Junction.mobi portalMany homeowners assume their work is permitted development when it is not, and carry out work without permission. If the council finds out, they can issue an enforcement notice requiring you to undo the work.
Even if you do not legally need to consult neighbours, it is good practice to discuss your plans with them. Neighbour objections can delay or derail applications.
Councils must follow planning policy, so it is important to understand what the policy says before applying. If your proposal clearly breaches policy, it is likely to be refused.
You cannot start work until planning permission is granted. If you do, the council can issue a stop notice and require you to undo the work.
Planning permission is required for most building work that changes the external appearance or use of a property, but many extensions and alterations fall under permitted development rights and do not need permission. Applications are decided by local councils within 8 weeks (householder) or 13 weeks (major developments), but delays are common due to understaffing and backlogs. The average planning application costs £206 for householder applications, plus £500–£2,000 in architect fees. Neighbours can object, but councils decide based on planning policy, not popularity. Around 88% of applications are approved, but refusals can be appealed to the Planning Inspectorate, with appeals taking 6–12 months and a 35% success rate. Check the Planning Portal before starting work, consult neighbours, and hire a professional if your project is complex. The UK planning system is slow, bureaucratic, and frustrating, but it exists to protect the character of areas and the amenity of neighbours. If you follow the rules and understand the process, you can navigate it successfully.