Types of application

Which type of application is required?
There are two methods of applying for approval of building projects.
For domestic alterations you can submit a Building Notice giving brief details of your proposals. This should be submitted 48 hours before the work starts together with the statutory fee and any drawings and details.
For work involving extensions it is advisable to always prepare plans and submit for Full Plan approval.
Works to shops, offices, factories, hotels and boarding houses must be made by the Full Plans route so that we can consult the Fire Brigade to ensure that adequate Fire Precautions measures are provided. Also if you wish to obtain formal approval for domestic works before the work begins you can submit a Full Plans application. Decisions can take up to five weeks but approval can be provided in a few days for urgent applications. Once you have received Full Plans approval you must submit a Commencement Notice 48 hours before the work starts. The work is then inspected on site at the key stages of the building, such as foundations and drainage.
What is a Building Notice Application?
If you submit a Building Notice you can start work on site after the statutory period of 48 hours, although if you contact the Local Authority you may be able to start earlier. However, the correct fee must accompany your Notice. Alternatively e-mail application forms and other electronic forms of application may be accepted, contact the Local Authority. We will accept a Building Notice via Email provided that you pay the required Statutory Building Control Charges within seven days. A Full Plan application can also be submitted via Email, provided the plans and application fee is forwarded by first class post. Please contact your local office for advice.
What is a Full Plans Application?
When making a Full Plans application you should enclose the appropriate fee together with two copies of the drawings and if appropriate, structural calculations, giving full details of your proposals. The application will be thoroughly checked and we will issue a pass or reject or add conditions to an approval with your permission. This gives you protection of being able to show that your plans were approved as complying with Building Regulations.
Charges are set locally within a framework set by the Government, in order to recover the cost of the service.
The statutory limit for dealing with Full Plans application is five weeks although a decision may be made within a shorter time
Rejection of the application is NOT refusal of the scheme as a whole and will generally only happen if it shows major contravention of the Building Regulations, or there is insufficient information. Wherever possible approval, if necessary with conditions where we need additional information or if minor changes are needed will be granted. There is a right to appeal to the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister.