Find out if you need planning permission to for building work you intend to carry out, and how to respond to a planning application as a member of the public.

Local authorities are responsible for planning for the future of their cities and counties, including the type of development that will happen in their area. This ensures that areas develop in a sustainable way and our built heritage remains protected.

If you plan to place signs or advertisements in a public place, sell goods or give a performance in a public area, you may need a licence or permit from your local authority.

Local authorities deal with derelict sites in order to make areas safer, improve their appearance, or to help create housing.

Find out about how local authorities bring vacant sites back into productive use and encourage development in areas where it’s needed.

Local authorities are responsible for enforcing building regulations. These are important for protecting the public and cover issues like fire safety and accessibility.