Do I need planning permission?
If you’re planning work to your home or garden, this page helps you find out whether you need planning permission.
Some small projects can go ahead without permission, while others will need planning approval and possibly a building warrant. Checking early will save you time and avoid problems later.
When planning permission is not needed
Some home improvements can be done without planning permission. This is called permitted development. It covers certain small extensions, alterations and garden buildings, provided they meet size and location rules set out in national legislation.
Two Scottish Government circulars explain these rules in plain English:
- Circular 1/2024: Householder Permitted Development Rights – for changes to homes
- Circular 2/2024: Non‑Domestic Permitted Development Rights – for changes to non‑residential buildings
Our short video explains permitted development in simple terms and is a good place to start.
If your proposal does not meet permitted development rules, you’ll need to apply for:
- planning permission or any other relevant consent, and/or
- a building warrant, which is separate from planning permission
We recommend checking both at an early stage.
The circulars provide guidance on many common small-scale developments. Also see the guidance on Air Source Heat Pumps.
Apply for a certificate of lawfulness
If you believe your work is permitted development, you can apply for a certificate of lawfulness. This gives you written confirmation that permission is not needed and can be helpful if you sell your property later.
To apply for planning permission, please visit Getting Started on ePlanning Scotland.
Planning Aid Scotland
If you’re confused about planning rules or need independent advice before taking the next step, Planning Aid Scotland can help. They offer free, impartial and confidential planning advice to anyone involved in the planning process, including residents, community groups and small organisations.
What is Planning Aid Scotland?
Planning Aid Scotland (PAS) is an independent charity and social enterprise that helps people understand how planning works in Scotland. Their advice is not linked to the Council or developers. This means you can speak openly and get clear, unbiased guidance about your situation.
How they can help you
PAS can:
- explain planning rules and procedures in plain English
- help you understand planning applications or decisions
- give early advice before you make an application
- support community groups involved in local planning issues
- help you understand how to comment on or get involved in planning proposals
They won’t submit applications for you or act as an agent, but they can help you feel more confident about what to do next.
Who can use the service?
Anyone can contact Planning Aid Scotland. Their service is especially useful if you:
- are unsure whether you need planning permission
- want help understanding a planning decision
- are affected by nearby development
- are involved in a community or local group
Advice is provided by trained staff and volunteers with planning experience.
How to contact Planning Aid for Scotland
You can contact PAS directly for advice using the contact us page on their website.
You can also find step‑by‑step guidance, advice pages and online tools on their website.
- Do I need planning permission?
- Air source heat pumps (ASHP’s)