Planning permission and building regulations Planning permission in Scotland and Northern Ireland

Planning permission in Scotland

The work may require a building warrant

When developing a property in Scotland you may need planning permission, for example if you want to build a large extension or conservatory. However, many home improvements don't need planning permission. For instance, you don't need planning permission for small extensions, but in all cases it is best to check with your local council.

You need to apply to your local council with your proposed developments. You must also gain a certificate to confirm your neighbours have been informed of your changes before you apply for planning permission. This certificate must be included in your application.

If you wish to appeal, you need to go to the Directorate for Planning and Environmental appeals.

Building warrants

The work may require a building warrant, which is similar to building regulation compliance in England and Wales. You apply for this from your local council, usually before work starts, and, once it's finished, you or your trader submits a completion certificate.

Building warrants are usually needed for extensions and conversions. They may also be needed for internal alteration such as alterations to the roof or external walls, building or removing load-bearing walls and any change to the waste water disposal system.

Planning permission in Northern Ireland

As well as getting planning permission, you may need to comply with building regulations

When developing a property in Northern Ireland you may need planning permission – for instance if you want to build an extension or porch above a certain size, you want to divide off part of your house for use as a separate home, or for business or commercial use.

You need to apply to your local divisional planning office, which should decide about your application within eight weeks. Large or complex applications may take longer. The Planning Service should be able to give you an idea about the likely timetable.

If you wish to appeal, you need to go to the Planning Appeals Commission in Northern Ireland.

Building regulations

You may also need to comply with building regulations. You should lodge your application with the local authority prior to starting work. Unlike in England and Wales there are no competent persons schemes, completion certificates aren't mandatory and electrical jobs generally aren't covered by the regulations.