England · National documents
Land stability
Explains how land instability can affect the suitability of development and the evidence needed to assess and manage it.
AI-generated summaries of the linked official sources; not editorially reviewed. Sources and limits
Where this document applies
England: relevance depends on the proposal, site and planning process.
Land stability (official source, opens in a new tab) · Reference ID 45-001-20190722
A site needs suitable precautions for its ground conditions
The guidance considers landslides, subsidence and ground heave and their effects on people, buildings and infrastructure. Planning works alongside building regulations and other responsibilities, so an assessment needs to address the actual ground conditions and proposal.
Read the official source (official source, opens in a new tab) · Reference ID 45-001-20190722
Limits and checks
- This national source does not establish the local policies, designations or site facts that apply to an individual proposal.
- Some guidance predates the August 2026 Framework and may refer to earlier policy numbering. Read it with the current Framework and any applicable transition provisions.
Read alongside this document
Put the national source in your local context
Start with the exact refusal reason. Note the policy and paragraph it cites, then check your authority’s policy summary and the facts discussed in relevant appeal decisions. Each appeal turns on its own facts and does not predict another outcome.