Building regulations permissions

Planning Permission

Planning permission is approval from the planning authority for development or a material change in the use of land or buildings where permission is required.

Planning considers matters such as siting, scale, appearance, neighbouring amenity and the effect on the surrounding area. It is distinct from a building warrant, which addresses compliance with building standards. Further guidance on the difference between planning permission and building warrants is available from the Scottish Government.

Some smaller alterations may be permitted development, but restrictions can differ for flats, listed buildings and properties in conservation areas. Edinburgh projects should be checked against the property type and site-specific constraints. The City of Edinburgh Council's planning guidance provides current information on planning requirements and applications.

Permission should be resolved before committing to work that depends on it. Approved drawings and conditions also need to be followed during design development and construction.

Property types

Commonly found in

Tenement Georgian Townhouse Victorian Villa Terraced House Traditional Cottage Georgian Flat Converted Flat Detached House Semi-detached House

Building glossary

Related building terms

Planning Drawings Planning Application

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