Business pre application enquiries

Businesses seeking to develop their premises may require planning permission. Permission may be required when building new premises, changing the use of existing premises, or extending existing buildings. Certain types of minor changes are permitted without the need to apply for planning permission.

You can go to the business section of the planning portal website for guidance on what will or will not require planning permission. 

The display of advertisements at business or commercial premises is subject to a separate consent process within the planning system. If you wish to display an advertisement or signage at your premises or within its vicinity you may need to obtain advertisement consent. 

More guidance on adverts and signage can be found on GOV.UK.

What to expect: 

• a formal written response in the form of a letter or email 
• a 20 working day timescale for a response, unless an extension of time is agreed 
• input from a planning officer or senior planning officer 
• an analysis of a proposal and officer opinion as to issues or merits of a particular proposal 
• once a formal response is received the pre application will be closed with any further discussion attracting a further fee

What not to expect: 

• a site visit or meeting 
• input from consultees 
• a guaranteed outcome on a planning application

Apply for pre-application advice