The green belt is a specially designated area of countryside protected from most forms of development. It is protected to help stop urban sprawl, preserve the character of existing settlements and encourage development within existing built-up areas.

The government are working on improving access to public land records, allowing you to check certain restrictions on land. You can view their progress here and see whether your land is greenbelt (note: this tool is currently under development).

You should contact your local planning authority to find out if your land is in a green belt area, and any policies or restrictions that may apply as a result.

‍

Your planning application must be made up of:

• The necessary plans of the site
• The required supporting documentation
• The completed form
• The correct fee.

The local planning authority will not be able to process your application unless the mandatory supporting documentation has been provided. You can also attach any other relevant documentation which you think will help the local authority determine the application.

What supporting documentation must be provided depends on the application type,  development type and local planning authority.

There are two levels of mandatory documents, national and local. If you’re applying online, the service will tell you what mandatory documentation you need to provide and allows you to attach the relevant documents. Most applications will require you to provide a location plan and a site plan.

In addition to the national list, your LPA may produce a list which details any specific documentation that is required to accompany the application. The requirements may vary according to the type of application, i.e. household, full, outline, etc. If you are applying online, this list is available from the supporting documents screen or your local planning authority’s website.

For more information around what to submit visit the how to apply section on Planning Portal.

Installing solar panels on your roof will often fall under permitted development rights, meaning an application for planning permission is not required provided certain limits and conditions are met.

The limits and conditions vary based on the type of roof you want to install the solar panels on and the location of the house. See the details below:

·     On a pitched roof, panels should not be installed above the highest part of the roof (excluding the chimney) and should project no more than 200mm from the roof slope or wall surface.

·     On a flat roof the highest part of the solar PV equipment cannot be more than 600mm higher than the highest part of the roof(excluding chimney).

·     The panels must not be installed on a building that is within the grounds of a listed building or on a site designated as a scheduled monument.

·     If your property is in a conservation area, or in a World Heritage Site, panels must not be fitted to a wall which fronts a highway.

As you have stated you’re in a conservation area, you must apply to the local authority for prior approval. This process includes submitting a form to the local planning authority which ensures that you meet the limits set out in legislation.

Forms relating to prior approval for mounting solar equipment can be submitted through the Planning Portal’s online application service and attract a fee of £240.

Visit our solar common projects page for more details and to explore similar permissions.

‍

Inefficient windows and doors can significantly contribute to heat loss. Replacing single glazed windows by installing double glazing can cut heat loss through windows considerably. Double glazing works by trapping air between two panes of glass creating an insulating barrier that reduces heat loss, noise and condensation.  

‍

If you can't replace all the windows, why not choose the rooms that cost you the most to heat? Other options to reduce heat loss through windows include sealing gaps or using thermal blinds.

You don’t usually need planning permission for repairs, maintenance and minor improvements or replacing windows and doors that are of a similar appearance.

‍

Building regulations apply to replacement glazing, in terms of thermal performance, air supply, ventilation, safety and means of escape.

Read about planning and building rules for doors and windows

‍

Adding a new driveway to an unclassified road for access to a house or business falls under permitted development rights, meaning no application for planning permission is required.

If you live in a listed building, you will have to apply for listed building consent for any significant works, whether internal or external.

You will have to apply to the relevant highway authority for a dropped kerb if you wish to cross a pavement to access your property.

Read more information on our dropped kerb common project.