Planning Application

A planning application is a submission of documentation which is prepared by an applicant who is seeking planning permission or consent to build on land or change the use of a premises etc. The application is typically assessed by the planning department within a town or city council or municipal authority. Different types of permission can be sought, including:
- Full planning permission: an application for permission to develop all aspects of the proposals (albeit subject to imposed conditions);
- Outline permission: an application for the approval ‘in principle’ of a proposed development, where the design or layout may not be fully advanced. Full permission would need to be subsequently sought;
- Retention/Retrospective permission: an application to retain development which was constructed without the benefit of planning permission. Typically viewed as ‘unauthorised development’ unless permission has been granted, a development such as this could be demolished if planning permission was to be refused.