Do I need Planning Permission?

This depends on what you want to do.  

The definition of “Development” is contained within the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997 and is extremely wide-ranging. It includes "the carrying out of building, engineering, mining or other operations in, over or under land or the making of any material change in the use of any building or other land”. If your proposal falls within this definition it will be classed as development, and will need planning permission.

What is Permitted Development?
Some minor developments, such as small house extensions and garden sheds in certain locations, may be granted permission by a statutory order and do not require you to submit a planning application. This is known as “permitted development”. You should ALWAYS contact us to receive confirmation of whether you need, or do not need planning permission.   If you live in a Conservation Area you are unlikely to benefit from any permitted development rights. 

What is a Material Change of Use?
The change in the use of any land or existing building may need planning permission. The “Use Classes Order” categorises many common uses into groups. Generally, if the change falls within the same group, e.g. from one kind of shop to another, permission is not required. However, this may depend on the circumstances and especially on the change in any impact on the wider environment. You should consult with us over the need for permission for a change of use. However there are different and more stringent restrictions in Conservation Areas and for listed buildings. 

If you are uncertain if planning permission is required, you should email your local officer using the Pre-Application Enquiry Form.

Change of Use and Business Developments
If you want to change the use of a building or land, you may need planning permission. There are developments which are 'permitted' and some which need permission.
Planning permission is not usually needed when both the existing and proposed new uses fall within the same 'Use Class'.   It is also possible to change uses between some classes without making an application. It is advisable to contact the Development Control Team in writing to confirm whether or not you need to submit a planning application, and if so, your chances of getting permission.

Most alterations to business premises do need planning permission, including:

• all shop and office extensions
• alterations to shop fronts
• external security shutters or grilles

Renewable Energy
Renewable energy is derived from inexhaustible resources such as the sun, wind, water and plant material.
There are many renewable energy technologies available which can harness these resources, to provide hot water for heating and washing and also to provide electricity. These include solar photovoltaic panels, solar water heating, ground source heat pumps, biomass stoves or boilers and wind turbines.
The installation of small-scale microgeneration equipment is unlikely to require Planning Permission, however you should check with your local Planning office.

Agricultural Proposals
Agricultural operations, or the use of existing buildings on agricultural land for agricultural purposes will not need planning permission. Permitted development exists for certain developments and you should seek advice from us before undertaking works. 

If you think you do need planning permission, you can get more guidance and information on our Make a Planning Application page.

If you are still unsure about whether or not you need Planning Permission, please feel free to contact our Planning staff