Permitted development and prior approval: here we explain where they apply and their limitations.
Last updated: 2 July 2025
Permitted development rights allow for certain types, or ‘classes,’ of development to be carried out without the need for planning permission.
The Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 1995 (often referred to as the GPDO for short) is the principal legislation that sets out all the different types of permitted development rights. The Order has been subject to a number of subsequent amendments.
Permitted development rights can apply to a wide range of developments. There are usually limitations and conditions which aim to control the impact of the development. The limitations and conditions are different depending on the type of development. If a development exceeds the limitations for permitted development (eg if it is over a certain size), permitted development rights do not apply and a planning application will be required.
In some cases, the local planning authority (LPA) may require an application to be submitted for a permitted development so it can give its ‘prior approval’ or determine whether its prior approval is required (known as ‘prior notification’). The prior approval process seeks confirmation from the LPA that specific parts of a development are acceptable before work can begin, which is meant to be simpler and quicker for applicants than submitting a planning application.
There are many different types of permitted development that are subject to different prior approval processes. In most cases, prior notifications and prior approval applications are not advertised. To find out about these applications, you will need to closely monitor the planning history of a particular site by regularly checking the online planning register on the LPA’s website.
If you have concerns about a prior notification or prior approval application – eg if the application misrepresents some crucial facts or elements of the proposed development that are key in deciding whether it would be considered permitted development or require planning permission – make sure that you send comments to the planning officer as soon as possible.
Some prior approval applications have shorter determination periods (eg 28 days) so it’s important to act fast!
There are some areas in Wales where certain permitted development rights may not apply or are more restricted, such as in Conservation Areas, National Parks, National Landscapes or a World Heritage Site.
Certain types of permitted development within a specific area may also be removed or restricted by the LPA under an Article 4 Direction. An Article 4 Direction is used to control works that could threaten the character of an area of acknowledged importance (eg a Conservation Area). It restricts the scope of permitted development rights either in relation to a particular area or site, or a particular type of development anywhere in the authority’s area. Where an Article 4 Direction is in effect, a planning application may be required for development that would otherwise have been permitted development.
Planning Portal – information on permitted development rights
Planning Portal – information on prior notification and prior approval
Note: information on Article 4 Directions can be found on the individual LPA’s websites.