When is Planning Permission needed?
Most new buildings, extensions or changes of use need planning
permission, although some minor developments are exempt. The rules
are complicated, and are stricter for Listed Buildings,
Conservation Areas, the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (the
south-eastern part of Waveney District) and the Broads Area. It is
always advisable to check at the outset with the Planning Office to
see if permission is needed.
The Planning Portal Householder Guide shows
what types of household development may need permission. It is
advisable to check at the outset with the Planning Office to see
if permission is needed.
The Planning Portal Volume Calculator . It
is vital to know the volume of a proposed development when you
are planning a new building or extending an existing one.
The
National Planning Portal provides more
information on the planning system including guidance on
whether planning permission is required, downloadable
application forms, fee calculator and the ability to submit
applications and pay fees online.
How to apply for Planning Permission
Download Planning Application forms here
Application forms are available from the Planning Office and from
the Council's local offices . The
Government sets a
scale of fees for all types of application. We encourage
pre-application discussions (preferrably in writing and accompanied
by a sketch of your proposals) as it is important that applications
are made correctly, including clear and accurate plans.
If you are applying to build new dwellings, the application will be
subject to planning obligations and this may also be the case for
major non-residential schemes (i.e. office/retail). View our
Section 106 pages
before submitting an application for further information. Early
discussion with the Area Planning Officer in these instances is
advised.
How are decisions made?
Waveney District Council consults Parish Councils, local
people and other agencies such as highway and drainage authorities,
and carefully considers all the responses. If you wish to comment
on a planning application currently under consideration, you
can comment online via the
Public Access Planning
Application Information System .
Alternatively you can write to:
The Planning Officer
Town Hall
High Street
Lowestoft NR32 1HS
Telephone: 01502 523072
Most minor applications are decided by senior planning officers.
Major or controversial proposals are considered
by the Development Control Committee. You are
entitled to speak at these meetings.
More information
on public speaking at Development Control Committe
meetings .
A formal decision notice will then be issued. Reasons are given
for imposing any conditions on a permission, or explaining why the
application has been refused. The applicant has the right of appeal
against any refusal or condition to the First Secretary of
State.
Complaints are dealt with through the Council's Local Complaints
Procedure or, on a matter of procedure, you may complain to the
Local Ombudsman.
A full list of planning decisions taken by the planning committees
or by officers under delegated powers can be seen by viewing
Planning
Committee Agendas or
Recent
Planning Information