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What is prior approval?
Certain types of development are granted planning permission by national legislation without the need to submit a planning application. This is known as 'permitted development'. In order to be eligible for these permitted development rights, each 'class' specified in the legislation has associated limitations and conditions that proposals must comply with.
One such condition on certain classes of permitted development is the need to submit an application to the local planning authority for its 'prior approval; or to determine if it’s 'prior approval' will be required.
This allows the local planning authority to consider the proposals, their likely impacts in regard to certain specific factors (e.g. transport and highways) and how these may be mitigated.
For more information on prior approval, read guidance on prior approval consent types.
Common Questions
A shed is classed as an outbuilding which falls under permitted development rights, meaning that it does not require an application for planning permission. They can be built in conservation areas provided they meet the limits set out in legislation.
Specifically on protected land, including conservation areas, no part of the outbuilding can be on the side or front elevation of the house.
A full list of limits and conditions can be read on our outbuildings common project.
Adding air conditioning to your home may be considered permitted development provided all the limits and conditions set out in legislation are met. The limits set out the function, size, placement and quantity of air conditioning units allowed.
The rights only apply if the system provides a heating function (including if it can provide both heating and cooling). If the system only offers a cooling function, then the rights do not apply and an application for planning permission will be required.
If your home is in a protected area such as a Conservation Area then permission will be required. If you live in a listed building then consent will be required.
The installation of air conditioning must comply with building regulations. It is advisable to contact an installer who can provide the necessary advice, preferably one who belongs to either the Microgeneration Certification Scheme or the relevant Competent Person Scheme.
For more information on air conditioning, read our heat pumps common project.
Merging two flats into one, commonly known as amalgamation is likely to require planning permission as it will impact the local planning authorities housing supply. The council’s views on this will vary from council to council. It is recommended that you contact your local planning authority to understand their position.
If you do not need to apply for planning permission then you can apply for a lawful development certificate to prove that the change is lawful.
Building regulations will be required if there are physical works taking place as part of the amalgamation, this may include removing walls or changing electrics. Visit the relevant common projects on our site for more information.
To qualify as permitted development some household building work projects – notably extending a house – must not exceed limits to the volume being added.
In England, the volume allowance mostly applies to loft conversions. You can read more on the Planning Portal.
Use the volume calculator to find out the volume of several loft conversion and extension types.
If you're doing electrical installation work in your home or garden in England or Wales, you must follow the building regulations. It's recommended to hire an installer who is registered with a competent person scheme (a registered competent person’) who can self-certify that the work meets the required standards.
