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.

How much does a Certificate of Lawful Development cost?

In England, a CLD costs £129 — half the householder planning application fee of £258.

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 a proposed development is lawful — either because it is permitted development or because it did not need planning permission. It costs half the standard planning fee and is highly recommended even when you are confident your project is PD.

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