Do I need planning permission? advice for business
How do I find out if I need planning permission?
Planning permission is required for all new business and commercial premises and most alterations and/or extensions to existing premises.
Further guidance on the need for planning permission and other consents can be found on the Planning Portal website.
The Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987 (as amended) puts uses of land and buildings into various categories. In many cases involving similar types of use, a change of use will not require planning permission. You can find further information on the Planning Portal - Use Classes and permitted changes webpage.
City Centre Priority Streets Local Development Order
On 23 May 2019, in consultation with the Regeneration, Planning and Transport Portfolio Holder, Bradford Council adopted a Local Development Order. This allows certain types of development within the City Centre Priority Streets area to be undertaken without the need for planning permission. You can find out more information about this Development Order on the City Centre Priority Streets Local Development Order page.
Changes of Use Requiring Prior Notification
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 its 'Prior Approval' will be required.
This allows the Local Planning Authority to consider the proposals, their likely impacts in regard to certain specific factors (for example, transport and highways) and how these may be mitigated.
Further information can be found on the Planning Portal prior approval webpage.
Obtain confirmation from the Council - Lawful Development Certificate
If you are still not sure whether you need planning permission you can submit an application for a lawful development certificate for a proposed use or development. You will receive a formal decision as to whether your proposal is permitted development or an application for planning permission is required. Please note that there is a fee for these applications.
Building Regulations
Remember, whether or not your building project requires planning permission you will still need to comply with Building Regulations.
You can find more information and advice on Building Regulations on the Advice for businesses page or the Planning Portal.
