• Outline Planning Permission (OPP)
• Detailed Planning Permission (DPP)
• Full Planning Permission (FPP)
• Listed Building Consent
• Planning Application Process
• Planning Appeals

If you're not sure whether full planning permission will be granted or not, then  good way to 'test the water' is to apply for outline planning permission, which means that you won't have to shell out on detailed plans and drawings. OPP gives an indication of permitted development, such as the footprint and height of the building and is subject to a condition that full planning details will need to be approved before building can commence. Outline planning permission is valid for up to 5 years but you will have just 3 years to apply for Detailed Planning Permission.

Detailed planning permission must be submitted within 3 years of outline planning permission. Detailed designs should be submitted in order to gain approval to build. Building must commence within 2 years.

Full planning permission is a combination of outline planning consent and detailed planning consent - with a single application containing all the relevant detailed information. Although this will save you time, it also means that you will have wasted money on producing plans and drawings if it's refused. However, you can minimise the risks involved by taking expert advice beforehand. Full Planning Permission is valid for 5 years from the date of consent.

If you plan to build a new house with the curtilage of a listed building (that is, within its grounds) you must apply for listed building consent in addition to planning permission. There is no fee for this consent.

Planning application forms are available from your local council, along with any guidance on the information it expects you to provide. If possible, try to arrange a meeting with a planning officer for an informal discussion before you proceed - you will not be charged for this.

1. Contact the planning department of your local planning authority; tell them what you plan to do and ask for their advice. You should also ask if they foresee any difficulties which could be overcome by amending your proposal.
2. Decide on the type of application you wish to make and request an application form.
3. Submit your application with the correct fee and supporting documents.
4. The local planning authority will acknowledge your valid application or request any missing documents.
5. The local planning authority will publicise and consult on the application.
6. The application will then be considered by a Planning Officer or Committee and permission will be granted, granted with certain conditions or refused.

The council should decide your application within 8 weeks, although large scale or complex applications may take longer. If they cannot decide your application within 8 weeks, they should obtain your written consent to extend the period, for example, if the issues involved are complex or many people will be affected by the proposed plans.

If your plans are refused or have conditions imposed upon them, then you have the right to appeal to the First Secretary of State (Office of the Deputy Prime Minister). However, it is often easier (and quicker) to ask the council whether changes to your proposal would make it more acceptable. You are permitted to submit another application with modified plans free of charge within 12 months of the decision on your first application.

If your application is refused, don't give up. Plans are often passed on appeal or altered plans passed after a second or third application. Be prepared to be co-operative, patient, and flexible to assist the planning permission process.