What Is a Prior Approval Application?
If you are planning a property extension, converting a commercial building or undertaking another form of development, you may need to submit a prior approval application before starting work.
Prior approval is a procedure associated with certain permitted development rights. It allows a local planning authority to assess specific aspects of a proposed development before it can proceed. Although the development may be permitted in principle, the relevant procedure must still be followed where prior approval is required.
For property owners and developers, understanding how to prepare and submit the application is important. The requirements can vary depending on the type of development, and submitting incomplete information or using the wrong application route can lead to delays or complications.
At Expert Planning Consultants, we help homeowners, landlords and developers understand their planning obligations and prepare applications that address the requirements relevant to their proposals.
This guide explains when a prior approval application may be required, what information you may need to provide, how the council assesses an application, and how professional planning support can help you move your project forward.
When Do You Need a Prior Approval Application?
A prior approval application is required for certain types of development that fall under specific permitted development rights.
The exact circumstances depend on the applicable development category. Some proposals can proceed under permitted development without a prior approval process, while others require information to be submitted to the local planning authority for consideration.
Examples of projects where prior approval may be relevant include:
Larger Home Extensions
Certain larger single-storey rear extensions may be carried out under permitted development rights, subject to a specific prior approval procedure.
The homeowner may need to notify the local planning authority and provide details of the proposed extension. The council may then consult adjoining neighbours and consider the relevant impact of the development.
This procedure is different from the requirements applying to smaller extensions. It is therefore important to establish which route applies before finalising drawings or arranging construction work.
Commercial to Residential Conversions
Some commercial buildings may qualify for conversion to residential use under permitted development rights.
However, the relevant route may require a prior approval application so the council can assess specified matters. Depending on the development category, these may include transport and highways, contamination, flooding, noise and natural light.
The building’s existing lawful use, planning history and proposed residential arrangement should be reviewed before deciding whether this route is available.
Agricultural Building Conversions
Certain agricultural buildings may be converted to alternative uses under permitted development provisions.
These conversions are subject to particular conditions and limitations. Prior approval may also be required for matters specified under the relevant procedure.
The building’s previous use, physical condition, proposed conversion and site circumstances may all be relevant when establishing whether the development qualifies.
Other Commercial Development
Certain changes involving commercial premises may also fall within permitted development categories that require prior approval.
The authority’s assessment will depend on the specific route being used. It is important to establish the existing use of the premises and the proposed activity before deciding which application is appropriate.
What Should You Check Before Submitting a Prior Approval Application?
Before preparing an application, you should establish whether the proposed development actually qualifies under the relevant permitted development provisions.
This is an important first step because not every development can use the prior approval route. A proposal that falls outside the applicable permitted development requirements may need full planning permission instead.
There are several points worth reviewing.
1. The Existing Use of the Property
The property’s existing lawful use can affect which permitted development rights are available.
For example, a commercial building being considered for residential conversion may need to satisfy requirements relating to its current use and the proposed new use.
If the existing use is unclear, reviewing previous planning decisions and other relevant property information can help establish the correct position.
2. The Nature of the Proposed Development
You should have a clear description of the work or change of use you intend to carry out.
This should include the proposed alterations, the intended use of the property and any associated development.
A clear description helps establish which permitted development category may apply and what information the council will need to consider.
3. Planning History and Property Restrictions
Previous planning permissions, conditions and other restrictions can affect whether permitted development rights are available.
For this reason, the property’s planning history should be reviewed before an application is prepared.
4. The Relevant Prior Approval Requirements
Different permitted development categories have different requirements.
You should identify the specific matters the council is entitled to assess under the relevant procedure. This will help determine which supporting documents and reports may be needed.
If you are still establishing whether your project falls within permitted development, our guide to Permitted Development UK explains the general principles and restrictions that property owners should understand before proceeding.
What Documents Are Required for a Prior Approval Application?
The documents required will depend on the nature of the proposed development and the specific prior approval procedure.
There is no single supporting document checklist that applies to every application. However, the following information may be required.
Existing and Proposed Architectural Drawings
Drawings help the local planning authority understand the existing property and the proposed changes.
Depending on the project, these may include:
The drawings should accurately represent the proposal and provide sufficient detail for the authority to assess the relevant matters.
For a conversion project, for example, proposed floor plans may help demonstrate the intended internal arrangement and the provision of natural light where this is relevant to the assessment.
Location and Block Plans
A location plan identifies where the property or development site is situated.
A block plan provides more detail about the site and its immediate surroundings, including the position of the proposed development in relation to existing buildings and boundaries.
These plans help the council understand the application site and identify the development being proposed.
Description of the Proposed Development
The application should clearly explain what you intend to do.
For example, if you are proposing a commercial-to-residential conversion, the description should identify the existing building and the proposed change of use.
If the proposal involves an extension, the description should explain the nature and extent of the proposed works.
Unclear descriptions can create uncertainty about the development being assessed.
Supporting Reports and Assessments
Certain applications may require specialist supporting information.
Depending on the applicable procedure, this could include:
Not every application will require all these documents. The appropriate evidence should be identified by reference to the specific matters the council is permitted to assess.
Application and Ownership Details
The relevant application forms and property information must also be completed.
This may include details of the applicant, the site address, ownership information and any required declarations.
The information should be consistent across the forms, drawings and supporting documents.
How to Submit a Prior Approval Application
Although the process varies depending on the development category, there are several stages that are commonly involved.
Step 1: Establish the Correct Application Route
Before preparing the submission, establish whether the development qualifies under a permitted development right that requires prior approval.
This involves reviewing the property, its planning history, the proposed works and any relevant restrictions.
If the proposal does not satisfy the applicable requirements, another planning route may be necessary.
Step 2: Identify the Council’s Assessment Requirements
Once the correct route has been established, identify the matters the local planning authority will consider.
This is important because the supporting information should address the relevant assessment requirements rather than simply providing general details about the project.
For example, a proposal involving a change of use may require different supporting evidence from a larger home extension.
Step 3: Prepare the Drawings and Supporting Documents
The next stage involves preparing the necessary plans, forms and supporting reports.
Drawings should accurately reflect the intended development, while technical information should address the relevant issues.
Where specialist assessments are needed, these should be considered early in the process to help avoid delays.
Step 4: Complete and Submit the Application
Once the necessary information has been prepared, the application can be completed and submitted to the relevant local planning authority.
The submission should include the required forms, plans and supporting documents for the particular procedure.
It is important to check that the information is complete and consistent before submission.
Step 5: The Council Reviews the Application
After submission, the authority will check the application and consider whether the required information has been provided.
Once the application has progressed to the assessment stage, the council will consider the relevant matters under the applicable permitted development procedure.
Depending on the type of development, it may consult neighbouring properties or other relevant parties.
The authority may also request clarification or additional information where appropriate.
Step 6: Receive the Council’s Decision
The local planning authority will issue its decision in accordance with the relevant procedure.
If prior approval is granted, the development can proceed subject to the applicable permitted development requirements and any relevant conditions.
If it is refused, the reasons should be reviewed carefully before deciding on the next steps.
How Long Does a Prior Approval Application Take?
The timescale for a prior approval application depends on the type of development and the procedure that applies.
Different permitted development categories have different requirements and decision periods. Some involve consultation with neighbours or other parties, while others may require the council to assess technical information.
The quality and completeness of the submission can also affect how smoothly the process progresses. For this reason, it is advisable to establish the applicable timetable before arranging construction work or making other commitments.
You should also avoid assuming that development can begin immediately after submitting an application. Some procedures require the council’s decision or completion of a specified notification period before work can proceed.
At Expert Planning Consultants, we can help identify the relevant procedure and explain the steps that need to be completed before your project moves forward.
What Happens If a Prior Approval Application Is Refused?
A refusal does not necessarily mean that your proposed development cannot proceed. However, it is important to understand why the local planning authority reached its decision.
The reasons may relate to one or more matters that the council is permitted to assess under the relevant procedure.
For example, concerns could involve:
Once the reasons have been identified, you can consider the available options.
Amend the Proposed Development
If the refusal relates to an aspect of the proposal that can be changed, revising the design may help address the council’s concerns.
For example, changes to the layout or arrangement of a proposed conversion may be worth considering where the decision identifies a relevant design or amenity issue.
Provide Further Supporting Information
In some circumstances, the authority’s concerns may relate to insufficient evidence.
Additional information or a specialist report may help clarify the proposal, depending on the nature of the decision and the applicable procedure.
Consider a Revised Application
Where appropriate, a revised submission may be considered after addressing the issues identified by the council.
Before preparing another application, it is important to establish what changes or additional information are necessary.
Explore Full Planning Permission
If the proposal does not qualify under the relevant permitted development provisions, a full planning application may be a more appropriate route.
However, full planning permission involves a different assessment process, and approval is not guaranteed.
Obtain Professional Planning Advice
A planning consultant can review the decision notice, identify the issues raised by the council and advise on the options available.
This can help you decide whether to revise the proposal, provide further evidence or consider a different planning route.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for Prior Approval
A number of avoidable issues can affect the preparation and progress of an application.
Choosing the Wrong Application Route
Not every project qualifies for prior approval. Assuming that a development falls within permitted development without checking the relevant requirements can lead to an unsuitable submission.
Providing Incomplete Drawings
Drawings that do not accurately explain the proposed development may make it difficult for the council to assess the application.
Plans should be clear, consistent and appropriate for the type of development being proposed.
Overlooking Supporting Reports
Some procedures require technical evidence to address particular matters.
Failing to identify these requirements before submission can result in requests for further information and potential delays.
Giving an Unclear Description of the Development
The application should explain exactly what is being proposed.
A vague or inconsistent description can create confusion about the development the authority is being asked to assess.
Starting Work Before Completing the Required Procedure
Submitting an application does not automatically mean that construction or a change of use can begin.
You should establish the applicable requirements and ensure that the necessary decision or notification period has been completed before proceeding.
How Can a Planning Consultant Help With Your Prior Approval Application?
Preparing a prior approval application involves more than completing an application form. You need to understand the relevant permitted development provisions, identify the matters the council can assess and provide the appropriate supporting information.
At Expert Planning Consultants, we can assist with the planning process from the initial assessment through to the preparation and submission of your application.
Our support can include:
Every project has its own circumstances, so the appropriate level of support will depend on the nature and complexity of the proposal.
Obtaining advice before submitting your application can help you understand the requirements and reduce the risk of avoidable errors.
Frequently Asked Questions About Prior Approval Applications
Can I submit a prior approval application myself?
Yes. You can prepare and submit an application yourself, provided you understand the relevant permitted development requirements and supply the necessary information. However, professional assistance can be useful where the proposal involves complex planning considerations or specialist reports.
Is prior approval the same as planning permission?
No. Prior approval is a procedure associated with certain permitted development rights. The council considers specified matters relating to the proposal rather than assessing the entire development in the same way as a full planning application.
Do all permitted development projects require prior approval?
No. Only certain permitted development categories involve a prior approval procedure. Other qualifying developments may proceed without this additional process, provided all relevant requirements are satisfied.
Can a prior approval application be refused?
Yes. The local planning authority can refuse prior approval where the relevant requirements are not satisfied. The reasons will depend on the type of development and the matters the authority is permitted to consider.
Can I start work after submitting my application?
Not necessarily. The applicable procedure may require the council’s decision or completion of a specified notification period before development can begin. You should establish the requirements for your particular project before starting work.
What if I do not have architectural drawings?
The drawings required will depend on the proposed development. Some applications require detailed existing and proposed plans, while others may need different supporting information. You should establish the drawing requirements before submitting the application.
Does prior approval cover Building Regulations?
No. Planning requirements and Building Regulations are separate. Receiving prior approval does not automatically mean that the development complies with Building Regulations or any other separate legal requirements.
Get Professional Support With Your Prior Approval Application
A prior approval application can provide a route for certain types of development to proceed under permitted development rights. However, the process must be approached carefully, as the requirements differ depending on the proposed works and the relevant planning provisions.
Whether you are considering a larger home extension, a commercial-to-residential conversion or an agricultural building conversion, establishing the correct application route is an important first step.
Contact us today to discuss your project and find out how we can assist with your prior approval application. We can assess your proposal, explain the relevant planning requirements, and help prepare the information needed for your application.