Permission in principle

Use the Planning Portal permission in principle form to establish whether a site is suitable for a specified amount of housing-led development in principle. This is an alternative way of obtaining planning permission for housing-led development which separates the consideration of matters of principle (stage one) from the technical detail (stage two).

What is permission in principle?

This is a consent route which establishes that a site is suitable for a specified amount of housing-led development in principle. This is an alternative way of obtaining planning permission for housing-led development which separates the consideration of matters of principle (stage one) from the technical detail (stage two).

How does permission in principle work?

Firstly an application is made to establish whether the principle of housing development on the site is acceptable, permission in principle (stage one) does not require the submission of detailed plans such as floor plans and elevations, but must identify the location of the site and the amount of development. Should permission in principle be granted, a further technical details application is required (stage 2), this requires the submission of full detailed drawings such as floor plans and elevations. Should an application for technical details be made, residents will be notified by way of a further letter, giving the opportunity to comment.

What matters can be considered at permission in principle stage?

• Location of development
• Land use
• Amount of development

All other material planning matters will be considered at the technical details stage (stage two).

Further information regarding the permission in principle application process on the GOV.UK website.