Check if you need planning permission

Find out if you need planning permission for your project.

1. Check the national rules

Start by checking whether your project is covered by the Permitted development rights for householders on GOV.UK

These are national rules that allow certain types of work without needing to apply for planning permission.

The Planning Portal also provides official government guidance for England. 

You can use the Planning Portal to check the rules for:

If you live in a flat or maisonette

Permitted development rights are very limited.

You are likely to need planning permission.

See our guidance on permitted development rights.

2. Check local restrictions

The Planning Portal explains national rules only.

You must check local restrictions, even if the Planning Portal says permission is not needed.

You are likely to need planning permission if your property is:

  • in a conservation area
  • covered by an Article 4 direction
  • a listed building, or attached to one
  • subject to a planning condition that removes permitted development rights

Check your property area

You need to check your property to see if any local planning restrictions apply.

Different parts of Westmorland and Furness use different systems.

Use the correct service depending on where your property is located.

South Lakeland and Eden area

Check your property using our online map to:

  • see if your property is in a conservation area
  • check for Article 4 directions
  • view planning applications and decisions

Barrow area

If your property is in the Barrow area, use the Barrow planning page.

National Park areas

If your property is in a National Park, you must apply to the National Park Authority instead of us.

3. Check if you need other permissions

You may also need other permissions as well as, or instead of, planning permission.

This can include:

  • listed building consent
  • building regulations approval
  • permission for works to trees

Listed buildings

You will need listed building consent for most works to a listed building, both inside and outside.

To check if a building is listed, you can search the National Heritage List.

Find out more about listed buildings and how to apply.

Trees

You may need permission to carry out work to a tree if:

  • it is protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO), or
  • it is in a conservation area

Read our guidance on trees, including how to apply for permission. 

Building regulations

Building regulations approval is separate from planning permission and covers how work is carried out.

Check our guidance on building regulations, including how to apply.

4. Further planning permissions guidance

If you are not sure what you need, you can get further guidance.

This can help you avoid delays, extra costs or enforcement action later.

You can:

Find out more information on Lawful Development Certificates before applying