How to Navigate the Complex World of Business Planning Permission
Starting a new business involves many tasks, one of which is attaining planning permission. Planning permission is essentially approval granted by the local council to undertake development work and change the use of a particular area of land or building. The process can be complicated and daunting, especially for first-time business owners. In this blog, we will guide you through the process of obtaining business planning permission.
Why is planning permission important for businesses?
Planning permission is important for businesses because it ensures that the proposed development meets specific requirements and regulations. Moreover, it safeguard businesses from legal action and fines for not complying with the legal standards. Therefore, ignoring the planning permission process can put a business in jeopardy and result in loss of time and money.
Understanding the Planning Permission Process
The first step in obtaining planning permission is to identify whether you need it or not. In most cases, planning permission is required if the proposed changes involve the external appearance of the building, such as changes to the roofline or changes in the structure, extending or changing the use of the land. Once you identify that you need planning permission, you can proceed to the application process.
The application process involves submitting a planning application to the local authority with the required details and documentation. The application must include the proposed plan, the purpose of the development, site plans, and elevations. The local authority will then review the application, and the decision time may vary from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the complexity of the application.
Factors to Consider When Applying for Business Planning Permission
When applying for planning permission, several factors come into play, which we have detailed below:
• The zoning of the land/property
Before applying for planning permission, it’s important to know the zoning of your land or property. If the land is zoned commercial and you’re proposing to use it for the same, things could be easier. However, if the land is zoned for residential use and you’re planning for commercial use, there could be additional regulations and permissions that you will need to comply with.
• Your development’s impact on the surrounding area
While reviewing a planning application, the local authority will consider the impact of the proposed development on the surrounding area. It will pay close attention to the effect on traffic flow, noise levels, waste management, and environmental impact.
• The cost of the application
Once you submit an application, there will be a fee. The cost will depend on the nature of your business, how big the proposed development is and how long it will take to review the application.
Conclusion
In conclusion, business planning permission is essential for businesses to operate lawfully. It may seem like a complicated and challenging process, but it’s important to follow the procedures to avoid legal action and fines. Understanding the planning permission process, knowing your property’s zoning, and being mindful of your development’s effects on the surrounding area are some of the essential considerations when applying for planning permission. By following these steps, you can navigate the complex world of business planning permission with ease.
