What you need to know
Some types of building work or changes in use are allowed without full planning permission, but you may still need to get prior approval from the local planning authority before starting.
Types of development that may need prior approval:
Large home extensions
If you're planning a single-storey rear extension that goes beyond the back wall of your house by:
- more than 4m but up to 8m (for detached houses), or
- more than 3m but up to 6m (for other houses)
and your house is not in a conservation area, you’ll need to notify the council before starting.
You must send:
- a written description of the extension (how far it extends, its height, and eaves height)
- site plan showing the extension
- addresses of neighbouring properties
- your contact details and email (if you’re happy to receive emails)
The council will inform your neighbours. If no one objects, you can go ahead. If there are objections, the council will assess how your extension might affect your neighbours and may ask for more details.
They’ll let you know within 42 days whether you can proceed.
Full details of this process are available in the statutory instrument paragraph A.4.
Changing offices to homes
Norwich City Council has removed automatic rights to convert offices to homes in the city centre (from 29 July 2022).
View office to residential conversions for details.
You’ll need to send:
- a written description of the change
- site plan
- your contact details and email
- any required fee
Full details of this process are available in the statutory instrument paragraph N.
Changing a building to a state funded school
If you're converting a building (not listed or protected) into a state-funded school, you must apply for prior approval. The council will assess:
- traffic and transport impact
- noise impact
- risk of contamination
You’ll need to send:
- a written description of the change
- site plan
- your contact details and email
- any required fee
Full details of this process are available in the statutory instrument paragraph N.
Telecommunications equipment
Certain telecom developments (like masts or antennas) may need prior approval. You’ll need to submit an application form with supporting documents and fee as detailed in the validation requirements (PDF, 889, KB).
Demolitions
If you're planning to demolish a building, you may need prior approval. Submit an application form with supporting documents and fee as detailed in the validation requirements (PDF, 889 KB).
