Check if you need building control approval

Planning permission vs building regulations

Even if you don’t need building control approval, you may still need planning permission.

The building regulations make sure that buildings are:

• safe

• accessible

• energy efficient

Planning permission relates to the:

• use of land

• appearance of buildings

• impact on the environment

You can find out about our planning service, or view more information about planning on the Planning Portal.

When you need approval

You need building control approval if you are:

• building a new structure

• extending an existing building

• carrying out alterations

Building regulations apply to most types of building work.

To help you understand if you need approval, you can use the interactive guide on the Planning Portal, which explains when you need building regulations approval.

However, you cannot submit a Building Control application via the Planning Portal.

Work completed without approval

If work has already been carried out without building control approval, you can apply for retrospective approval (regularisation).

Further information

For practical advice on home improvements, you can visit Front Door from the LABC.