This section will direct you to where you might best find planning advice and guidance and to find out if you need planning permission.
Planning Portal
For comprehensive advice on planning issues, please visit the Planning Portal, the Government's online service for planning. Here you will find all the information you need about the planning system, how to apply for planning permission and how to find out if you need planning permission.
Do I need planning permission?
One of the most common questions we receive is whether or not planning permission is required for alterations or extensions to people's properties. Planning permission is normally required before most building works are carried out or changes made in the use of land or premises but certain types of work are covered by 'permitted development'. This means that they can be carried out without planning permission, so long as they comply with the permitted development rules and restrictions.
The only formal way that the Council can tell you that you do not require planning permission for a project is for you to apply for a Certificate of Lawfulness. However, the Planning Portal has produced a range of simple interactive guides to help you find out what you may be able to do without planning permission. Just click on the relevant links below.
Common projects for detached or semi-detached houses
Common projects for terrace houses, flats and shops
Mini guides are also available on Conservatories, Extensions, Loft Conversions, Outbuildings and Porches, along with detailed advice on many other Common Projects.
Advice on specific planning proposals
For advice on specific planning proposals, please see our Development Management section.
Planning Aid
Planning Aid provides free, independent and professional planning advice and support to communities and individuals who cannot afford to pay planning consultant fees. It complements the work of local planning authorities, but is wholly independent of them.
Contact details:
The Planning Advisor
PO Box 1225, Kenninghall, Norwich, NR16 2WR
Tel: 0870 850 9801
E-mail: eecw@planningaid.rtpi.org.uk
Planning Aid provides free initial advice to all callers but more detailed help will only be provided to individuals and groups that meet their eligibility criteria.
Planning advice leaflets
The Planning and Building Control department has also produced a range of advisory leaflets, which can be downloaded from this website. Printed copies are also available from our Customer Service Centre.
Supplementary Planning Guidance
The Council has also produced planning policy guidance on development in the Green Belt and on Affordable Housing.
Date of last review: 18 June 2010