England · National documents
When is permission required?
Explains development, permitted development, changes of use and circumstances in which planning permission is required.
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.
When is permission required? (official source, opens in a new tab) · Reference ID 13-001-20140306
Start with whether the works constitute development
Planning permission is needed only where the works meet the statutory definition of development and are not already authorised through a relevant route. The guidance distinguishes operations and material changes of use from activities outside that definition.
Read the official source (official source, opens in a new tab) · Reference ID 13-001-20140306
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.