What is prior approval and how does it differ from full planning permission?

Prior approval is a limited consent under the General Permitted Development Order that allows the council to assess specified matters (such as transport impacts, flooding, or noise) for certain types of development. Unlike full planning permission, the council can only refuse prior approval on the specific grounds set out in the relevant GPDO class — it cannot refuse on general planning grounds such as design or loss of amenity (unless specified in the class).

How much does a prior approval application cost?

The fee for a prior approval application is £120 for most classes, including Class A (larger home extensions) and Class MA (commercial to residential). Some classes have different fees — check the current fee schedule on the Planning Portal.

What happens if the council does not respond within 42 days?

If the council does not issue a decision within 42 days of receiving a valid prior approval application, prior approval is deemed to be granted. You can proceed with the development. Keep records of the application date and correspondence so you can demonstrate the 42-day period has passed if questioned.

What is the neighbour consultation scheme for larger extensions?

For Class A larger home extensions (exceeding normal PD limits), the council must write to adjoining owners within 5 days of receiving the application and give them 21 days to comment. The council can only refuse prior approval if the extension would have an unacceptable impact on the amenity of adjoining properties. Other planning objections are not relevant.

Can I convert any commercial building to residential under Class MA?

Class MA permits conversion of buildings in use classes E (commercial, business, and service — including offices, shops, cafés, and light industrial) to residential (Class C3), subject to conditions. The building must have been in a Class E use, must have been vacant for at least one year, and must not be in certain excluded areas. The gross floor area must not exceed 1,500m² unless the council has granted prior approval for a larger conversion.

How to Apply for Prior Approval in England

Prior approval is a simplified consent process for certain types of development that fall within permitted development but require the council to assess specific limited issues before work proceeds. It is faster and cheaper than a full planning application, but it is only available for specific development classes set out in the General Permitted Development Order (GPDO).

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