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How can I contact my council's planning department?

A council’s planning department, known as the local planning authority (LPA), is the local government body responsible for managing and overseeing the planning system in a specific area.

You can use the search tool on Planning Portal to find the contact details for any local planning authority in England and Wales.

Find your local planning authority.

Common Questions

Do I need planning permission to replace an existing bay window?

Replacing the window within a bay window is treated the same as any other window. Meaning that the replacement of windows which have a similar appearance to those previously used would not require an application for planning permission.

Repairs, maintenance and minor improvements will also not require an application.

If you live in a listed building or a designated area then different rules may apply.

For more details on replacing windows, visit our common projects section.

What are the height restrictions for fences, gates and garden walls?

You can usually put up new fences, gates or garden walls without planning permission, as long as you stay within permitted height limits. If the structure is adjacent to a highway (including footpaths), it must not exceed one metre in height. For all other boundaries, the maximum permitted height is two metres. Anything taller than these limits will require planning permission.  

 

Read more about fences, gates and garden walls.  

What is a tree preservation order (TPO)?

Many trees are protected by Tree Preservation Orders (TPO) which means that, in general, you need the council's consent to prune or fell them.

A TPO is placed on a tree, group of trees or woodland with the aim of protecting them. The following is prohibited on a protected tree, without the local planning authority's (LPA) consent:

- Felling

- Topping

- Lopping

- Uprooting

- Wilful damage/destruction

Owners of the trees must maintain their trees, and an LPA will often encourage good tree management. However, they are unable to require maintenance work just because a tree falls under a TPO.

If you wish to complete work on a tree under a TPO you will be required to submit an application to the local planning authority. For full details on this application type, read guidance about works to trees and the application process.

 

Is there a maximum height for a new dormer?

Yes, under permitted development, a new dormer must not be higher than the existing highest part of the roof. It should also have materials that are in similar appearance to the existing roof. Additional limits apply in conservation areas and on listed buildings. Read about planning permission for loft conversions on Planning Portal

Do I need planning permission to demolish a building?

Demolishing a building may require planning permission or prior approval, depending on factors such as the building’s type, size, and location.

Before starting any demolition work, it’s important to consult your local planning authority to confirm what permissions are needed. This helps avoid the risk of enforcement action or legal consequences.

You will also need to ensure you conform to the building regulations around the demolishing of a building.

Read more about demolition.

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