Is a Certificate of Lawful Development the same as planning permission?

No — a CLD is not planning permission. It is a certificate confirming that the development is lawful without needing planning permission. It has the same practical effect when selling your property.

Can I build before getting a CLD?

Yes — you can build first and apply for an existing CLD afterwards. However, it is better to apply for a proposed CLD before starting work, as this eliminates any risk of the council deciding your work was not lawful.

What if my CLD application is refused?

If the council refuses a CLD, it means they consider the proposed development is not lawful as PD. You may need to apply for planning permission instead. You can appeal a refused CLD to the Planning Inspectorate.

How to Apply for a Certificate of Lawful Development (CLD)

A Certificate of Lawful Development (CLD) is a formal legal document from your council confirming that proposed or existing development is lawful. A proposed certificate costs half the equivalent full application fee; an existing certificate normally costs the full equivalent fee.

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