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How Much Does Planning Permission Cost in the UK?
If you’re planning on making any significant changes to your property, such as building an extension, converting a loft, or adding a conservatory, you may need to obtain planning permission from your local council. Planning permission is required to ensure that any proposed changes meet the necessary regulations and will not have a detrimental impact on the local area.
But just how much does planning permission cost in the UK? The answer isn’t straightforward, as the cost can vary depending on several factors. Here’s what you need to know:
The Basics of Planning Permission Costs
The cost of planning permission in the UK can range from around £200 to £20,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the project, the location, and the council’s fees. In general, smaller projects like adding a porch or installing new windows will cost less than larger projects like building a two-story extension or converting an outbuilding.
The cost of obtaining planning permission is made up of two parts: the application fee and any additional fees that may be required. The application fee is a fixed fee that is set by the government and applies to all planning applications, while any additional fees are set by individual councils and can vary depending on the project and location.
Application Fees
The application fee for planning permission in the UK depends on the type of application you are making. The current fees, which were last updated in 2018, are as follows:
- £462 for a full planning application for a new dwellinghouse or for a change of use to a residential property
- £234 for all other full planning applications
- £206 for a householder planning application, which covers most home improvement projects
- £116 for a prior approval notification for a larger home extension
- £96 for a prior approval notification for a change of use to a state-funded school, a registered nursery or a registered childcare facility
Addtional Fees
In addition to the application fee, some councils may charge additional fees for certain types of planning applications. For example, if an application requires extensive consultations with local residents or other organizations, the council may charge an additional fee to cover the cost of these consultations.
Other factors that can affect the cost of planning permission in the UK include the location of the property, the type of project, and the expertise required for the planning application. For example, if you are applying for planning permission for a listed building or a conservation area, the process is likely to be more complex, which can increase the overall cost.
Conclusion
Obtaining planning permission can be a significant expense for homeowners, but it’s essential to ensure that any proposed changes comply with the necessary regulations and won’t negatively impact the local area. The cost of planning permission in the UK can vary depending on several factors, so it’s important to research the fees that apply to your specific project and location before applying. Alternatively, consulting with a local estate agent or planning consultant can be helpful in obtaining an estimated cost.
