Do I need planning permission/is my proposal likely to be acceptable?

Not all building work needs planning permission: follow the link below to find out more.   However, please note that some properties have restrictions on what can be done without planning permission. We therefore recommend that you contact us to find out if you need to apply for planning permission or any other consent.

Contacting us for informal advice before submitting an application can:

• identify problems at an early stage
• help get things right first time
• save you time and money
• speed up the decision making process
• result in better quality development

We also recommend you discuss your proposals with neighbours at an early stage.

Before we can answer queries about the need for planning permission or, where permission is required, the likelihood of it being granted, we need to research the site history and may need to visit the site and/or consult others e.g. Bucks County Council about highways issues. Because of this, you must enquire in writing.

We aim to respond to simple queries within 10 working days but more complex queries can take several weeks. We will acknowledge your enquiry and tell you when you can expect to receive a reply.  

Our reply will tell you

• if a formal application is required
• the main planning considerations on which we will base our decision
• where possible, our likely recommendation if you submit a formal application

Please note that pre-application advice is given on the basis of the information you give us but cannot commit us to a particular decision as other matters may come to light after you submit your application.  In addition, some decisions are taken by our Development Control Committee, which is not bound to follow the case officer's recommendation.

Pre-application queries and our responses remain confidential unless a formal application follows.  When we receive a planning application following on from an informal enquiry, our original advice then becomes part of the public record, as it is relevant to the determination of the application.

If your query relates to a proposed extension, outbuilding, new access, fence or wall you should complete our development control householder enquiry form, which is available for download below. For other types of development, please contact us by email or letter giving as much information as possible.

Date Updated: 06/01/09

Downloads:

File name	Summary	File size / Download time	File Format
Adobe Acrobat Reader is available FREE of charge. You can download it directly from Adobe's website by clicking the link to the right. Once on Adobe's website, follow the instructions on screen to install the latest version of Adobe Acrobat Reader.
Householder enquiry form	If you plan to build an extension, outbuilding, new access, fence or wall, use this form to find out whether planning permission is needed or whether your proposal is likely to be acceptable	93KB 56Kbps Modem: Less than 1 Minute Broadband : Less than 1 Minute