Which Approvals Might Your Building Project Need?

Before arranging building work, identify the approvals your proposal needs. Planning permission is one part of the process. A project in Norfolk may also involve building regulations, listed building consent or other permissions. This overview concerns England; the systems elsewhere in the UK differ.

Planning permission

Planning considers the proposed development and its effect on the site and surroundings. If an application is required, the local planning authority assesses it against relevant policies and considerations. An architect, designer or planning consultant can help prepare the proposal, but appointing a professional or builder does not guarantee approval.

For documents, submission and decisions, use our North Norfolk planning application checklist.

Permitted development and prior approval

Some work has planning permission granted through permitted development rights, subject to limits and conditions. These rights are not a blanket exemption for any extension or conversion. Some routes also require a prior approval process. Ask your designer or planning adviser to identify the specific route and restrictions for the property. The government’s householder guidance explains the framework.

Lawful development certificates

A certificate can establish that proposed or existing work is lawful for planning purposes. It does not remove requirements under other systems. Read the official certificate guidance.

Listed building consent

For a listed property, establish whether the proposed work affects its special character and needs listed building consent. Planning permission and listed building consent are separate considerations. Our listed-building renovation guide explains the initial checks.

Building regulations

Building regulations concern matters such as the building’s structure, safety and performance. A project can require building regulations approval even when a full planning application is unnecessary. Arrange the appropriate route, inspections and completion information with your project team. See GOV.UK’s building regulations overview.

Bring the checks together before agreeing a start

Ask your project team to record the required approvals, who will obtain them, any outstanding conditions and the drawings to be used for pricing. Also identify other site-specific matters, such as drainage permissions or party wall procedures, where relevant. Keep that information with the contract and specification.

Ready to discuss the construction work? Send Stellar Construction your project details and tell us what stage your plans have reached.

Guidance reviewed September 2026.