Planning permission is needed when you want to build something new or change the use or appearance of a building. This includes extensions, loft conversions, or even changing a shop into a home. If you live in Doncaster, this guide will help you understand how to apply and what steps to follow.
What Is Planning Permission?
Planning permission is approval from Doncaster Council. It confirms that your proposed building work or change of use is acceptable. It is based on local and national planning policies. Without it, you could face enforcement action or struggle to sell your property later.
When You Need It
You need planning permission for most types of development. Examples include:
- Building a new house or flat
Any new dwelling, even in your garden, requires full planning permission. - Large house extensions
Rear or side extensions that go beyond certain size or height limits need permission. - Loft conversions with dormers at the front or side
These often fall outside permitted development and must be approved by the council. - Converting a house into flats or an HMO
Changing how a property is used will usually require permission and extra documents. - Commercial to residential changes
Some changes are allowed under permitted development but still require a prior approval process. - Changes to listed buildings or homes in conservation areas
These areas have stricter controls and almost always require permission for external changes.
Always check the exact rules for your property, as restrictions vary.
Step 1: Check What’s Allowed
Before you start any work, find out if you need planning permission:
- Use the Planning Portal’s online tools
It offers basic guidance and interactive guides for householder projects. - Speak to Doncaster Council’s planning team
They can give general advice and confirm if permission is likely to be needed. - Ask a local professional for advice
Planning consultants or drawing services can check against local rules and site conditions.
If the work falls under permitted development, consider applying for a Lawful Development Certificate to confirm it’s legal.
Step 2: Get a Measured Survey
Accurate technical drawings start with a proper measured survey:
- Internal and external measurements
These include all floors, walls, windows, doors, rooflines, and boundary features. - Carried out using laser devices and manual checks
Precision matters – incorrect measurements can delay your application or lead to rejections. - Forms the base of all your planning and building drawings
Everything from layout plans to elevation views starts with a reliable survey.
Step 3: Prepare Your Planning Drawings
You need detailed drawings to support your application. These usually include:
- Existing and proposed floor plans
Show how the layout is changing, including rooms, access points, and dimensions. - Elevations (front, rear, side views)
These help planners see how the appearance of the building will change from the street and neighbours’ views. - Roof plans and section views (if needed)
Needed for lofts, dormers, or changes to ridge height. - Site and location plans
Show the site boundary and its position in relation to nearby roads and buildings.
All drawings must follow the council’s technical standards for scale, labelling, and format.
Step 4: Submit the Application
Once you have your drawings, you submit your application through the Planning Portal or directly to Doncaster Council:
- Complete the application form
Include full contact details and a clear description of the work. - Attach the required drawings and supporting documents
Some projects need extra items like a design and access statement or flood risk report. - Pay the fee
Householder applications usually cost £258. Check the latest fees on the Planning Portal.
Once submitted, you’ll get a reference number. This is how you track the progress.
Step 5: Application Goes Live
The council will now begin processing the application:
- Validation check
They make sure the drawings and forms meet the required standard. - Neighbour notification
Letters are sent to neighbours so they can comment within a 21-day period. - Consultation with other departments
Planning officers may speak to highways, drainage, or heritage teams depending on your site. - Publication on the public register
Your application will be visible on the Doncaster Council planning portal.
This part of the process usually takes 3–5 weeks before a decision is made.
Step 6: The Decision
Most householder applications are decided within 8 weeks:
- Approved
You can go ahead with the work, usually with conditions such as materials or time limits. - Approved with conditions
You may need to follow specific requirements, such as keeping windows obscure-glazed or limiting roof height. - Refused
You can appeal or amend the plans and try again. The council will explain the reasons in writing.
If the decision is delayed, your planning agent can chase on your behalf.
What If You Don’t Apply?
Doing work without permission can lead to:
- Enforcement notices
You may be told to undo the work, even if it’s finished. - Problems when selling
Solicitors often check planning history during a sale, and missing permissions cause delays. - Risk of legal action
In some cases, the council may take formal action through the courts.
Always apply before starting work, or apply for retrospective permission if already completed.
Can a Professional Help?
Using a professional can make the process easier:
- They understand local planning policies
They’ll design the plans to meet local rules and reduce the chance of refusal. - They prepare and submit everything
You don’t need to worry about forms, drawings, or technical details. - They speak to the council for you
If issues come up, they handle them directly.
The small cost of getting help can save time, money, and stress.
Getting planning permission in Doncaster doesn’t have to be difficult. Check the rules. Get accurate drawings. Submit everything properly. And don’t be afraid to get help. Doing it right the first time avoids delays and future problems.
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