Difference between planning and building control

Will I need both?

In most, but not all cases, a new development is likely to require both planning permission and building regulation approval. 

To ensure the smooth process of both planning and building regulation applications, particularly for more complex projects, we would advise you to contact both building control and planning staff to discuss your proposals prior to making any applications. Find out about our pre-app service.

In these circumstances you would have to make two separate applications, including paying two separate fees, to have your applications considered.

It has been normal practice for designers to seek planning permission before making a building regulation application. The requirements of building regulations, particularly with regard to access for fire fighting vehicles, means of escape and structural fire precautions, together with the provision of access for disabled people, will have significant bearing on the ultimate design of a building and the external layout of a site.