Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council— Planning Applications & Local Information
Unitary Authority • South West
Planning Statistics
Planning Permission in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole
Planning permission rules in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council follow national legislation. The council applies the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) alongside local policies in their development plan. Use these guides to find out whether your project needs permission.
How to Apply for Planning Permission in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole
- 1
Check if you need permission
Many home improvements are permitted development and do not need planning permission. Use our PD checker or read the relevant permission guide.
- 2
Apply via the Planning Portal
Most councils accept applications online through the Planning Portal (planningportal.co.uk). You can also apply directly through your council's own portal.
- 3
Pay the planning fee
Householder applications cost £258 in England. Listed building consent is free. Pay online by card when submitting your application.
- 4
Await the decision (typically 8 weeks)
The council must decide most householder applications within 8 weeks of the application being validated. You will receive a decision notice by post or email.
Conservation Areas in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole
Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council has 36 designated conservation areas. In these areas, planning controls are stricter:
- •Some permitted development rights are removed — extensions and alterations may need planning permission.
- •Materials must be in keeping with the character of the area.
- •Demolition of structures over a certain size requires consent.
- •Solar panels and satellite dishes on principal elevations are not permitted development.
Planning FAQs — Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole
Key Data
- Listed Buildings
- 720
- Conservation Areas
- 36
- Brownfield Sites
- 34
- Tree Preservation Orders
- 340
- Article 4 Directions
- 7