Do I need planning permission to demolish a building, or part of a building?

Demolition of any significant part of a listed building requires Listed Building Consent. This would include any internal features which contribute to the character of the building. Buildings within the curtilage (usually defined as the garden area) of a listed building are often also legally considered to be listed. You should always ask the Council's Conservation team for advice before demolishing any part of a listed building, since it is an offence to carry out unauthorised works to a listed building.

If the building is within a conservation area, Conservation Area Consent will be required if the building is above 115 cubic metres in volume and a substantial part (usually more than half) is to be demolished.

You do not normally need planning permission to demolish a building. 28 days prior notification is required for the demolition of dwellings, unless the demolition is part of a scheme that already has planning permission.

No permission or approval is normally required to demolish minor parts of houses, unless they are listed (see below). Examples would include chimneys and extensions.

If in any doubt, please contact the District Council on 01789 260303 or write to us with details of the location and extent of buildings to be demolished. We will likely need to ask you for written details before an informal opinion can be given.

The Building Regulations also apply. Please contact our Building Control section on 01789 260626.

Useful forms and links can be found on the right hand side of this page.