Free Local Guide to Planning Permission and Building Control in Brighton & Hove

Your Guide to Planning Permission, Building Control, & Local Services

Helping you navigate planning permission with free resources, articles, and expert advice for Brighton & Hove.

Table of Contents

1. Why We Created This Resource
   An introduction to the purpose and vision behind PlanningPermissionHelp.com.

2. What We Cover (And What We Don’t)
   A breakdown of our scope, including planning permission, building control, and local regulations—plus what’s outside our remit.

3. Planning Permission in Brighton & Hove: Key Considerations
   Understand how local policies shape planning decisions, including neighbour impact, sustainability, and heritage.

4. Building Control and Why It Matters
   Learn the difference between planning permission and building control—and why both are essential for your project.

5. Understanding Permitted Development Rights
   Find out if your project qualifies for improvements without full planning permission.

6. Navigating Conservation Areas and Listed Buildings
   Advice for owners of heritage or architecturally significant properties in protected zones.

7. Building a Strong Application
   A step-by-step approach to preparing a successful planning or building control application.

8. Engaging with the Local Community
   Tips for gaining neighbour support and improving your chances of approval.

9. Overcoming Common Challenges
   Insights on handling application delays, technical obstacles, and appeals.

10. Staying Updated with Local Policy Changes
    Why planning guidance changes and how to stay informed.

11. Sustainability and Green Building Practices
    Eco-friendly improvements and how they impact local planning applications.

12. Working with Professionals
    When and how to hire experts like architects, surveyors, and planning consultants.

13. Knowing Your Rights and Responsibilities
    Legal obligations, such as Party Wall Agreements and enforcement risks.

14. Community Benefits of Proper Planning
    Why compliance helps preserve Brighton & Hove’s charm and safety.

15. Next Steps: Getting Started on Your Project
    Actionable steps to begin your planning or building journey.

16. Staying Connected
    How to keep up with regulatory changes and local updates.

17. Our Commitment to Transparency
    A reminder of our mission, independence, and how we ensure content accuracy.

18. Start Exploring PlanningPermissionHelp.com
    Your invitation to dive into detailed guides, case studies, and local resources.

19. Closing Thoughts
    A final message to inspire confidence and community engagement in your project.

Why We Created This Resource

Brighton & Hove is a vibrant, diverse city filled with unique architecture, thriving neighborhoods, and an ever-growing desire to adapt and improve our local buildings. From small home renovations to commercial refurbishments, virtually every project intersects with planning permission or building control at some point. Yet, for many people, the complexities of these processes can feel overwhelming or confusing.

That’s where PlanningPermissionHelp.com comes in. We saw the need for a centralized, easily accessible guide that’s tailored to our local community. We aim to offer clarity and structure around planning regulations, explaining each stage of the process in terms anyone can follow. In doing so, we hope to empower residents, business owners, and stakeholders to approach property modifications with confidence. If at any point you want to find out more about who we are, our purpose, and how we source our information, head over to our About Page.

What We Cover (And What We Don’t)

You might be wondering exactly what kind of information you can find here. PlanningPermissionHelp.com focuses on the following key areas:

• Planning Permission Basics: We discuss how to determine if you need planning permission for a particular project, what factors the council considers, and how local plans and policies in Brighton & Hove influence decisions.

• Building Control Essentials: Building control differs from planning permission, but both often go hand-in-hand. We explain how building regulations ensure that structures are safe, accessible, and sustainable—and what you need to do to comply.

• Local Regulations & Guidelines: From conservation area protections to listed buildings, we look at specific rules that apply in different parts of Brighton & Hove.

• Practical Tips and Checklists: We provide step-by-step guidance to help you organize documentation, liaise with the local authority, and prepare for site inspections.

Importantly, we don’t offer direct construction services or compete with builders. If you’re looking for actual construction work, you will need to contact a qualified contractor. Our job here is to help you understand—and navigate—the formalities and paperwork around planning permission and building control. That way, when you do proceed with physical construction, you’ll already have your approvals and regulations in order.

Planning Permission in Brighton & Hove: Key Considerations

Planning permission can be intimidating for many. It essentially involves getting the local authority’s approval for significant property changes, such as building extensions, changing a property’s use, or making alterations that could impact neighbors or the broader community. In Brighton & Hove, the council looks at factors like:

• Impact on Neighbors: Will the development block sunlight or overlook someone’s property?

• Environmental Concerns: Are there green spaces, protected trees, or biodiversity that might be affected?

• Local Character: Does the design maintain the aesthetic integrity of the neighborhood, particularly if it’s a conservation area?

• Transport & Access: Will the proposal create traffic or parking issues? Is the site still accessible to emergency services?

• Sustainability: Are energy-efficient materials and methods used? Does the plan align with eco-friendly guidelines?

Our aim is to help you understand how to address these points effectively in your application. To learn more about each aspect, check out our detailed guides on Planning Permission Requirements [LINK TO PLANNING PERMISSION GUIDE] and how to prepare a robust application.

Building Control and Why It Matters

If planning permission covers the “what” of your project, building control covers the “how.” Even if your work doesn’t require formal planning permission, it might still need approval under building regulations. These regulations exist to ensure health, safety, and welfare standards. They often involve:

• Structural Integrity: Making sure the building or extension is built on solid foundations and can bear the necessary loads.

• Fire Safety: Ensuring that there are adequate fire escape routes, smoke alarms, and fire-resistant materials.

• Accessibility: Providing safe access for all users, including those with mobility challenges.

• Thermal Performance: Using insulating materials and construction methods that meet or exceed standards for energy efficiency.

• Ventilation & Drainage: Implementing proper systems to manage air quality, moisture, and wastewater.

Brighton & Hove City Council’s building control department is responsible for enforcing these regulations. Many local developments must undergo plan checks, site inspections, and final sign-off to confirm compliance. If you’re unsure how building control applies to your project, explore our Building Control Overview [LINK TO BUILDING CONTROL GUIDE] for a comprehensive breakdown of what to expect.

Understanding Permitted Development Rights

Before you jump into formal applications, it’s worth considering whether your project falls under Permitted Development (PD) rights. PD rights can allow certain home improvements—like small single-storey extensions, loft conversions, or minor alterations—without needing a full planning application. However, these rights are subject to various limits and conditions, and they can differ in conservation areas or for listed buildings.

If you live in Brighton & Hove, be aware that the council may have “Article 4 Directions” in specific neighborhoods that restrict or remove PD rights to preserve local character. Researching whether your property has such constraints can save you time, money, and potential legal complications. We have an in-depth Permitted Development Rights guide [LINK TO PERMITTED DEVELOPMENT GUIDE] which explains these rules in more detail.

Navigating Conservation Areas and Listed Buildings

Brighton & Hove is known for its rich architectural heritage. Parts of the city—like The Lanes, Brunswick Town, and Clifton Hill—are designated conservation areas, each with their own specific policies designed to protect their unique character. Listed buildings, meanwhile, receive an added layer of protection due to their historic or architectural significance.

If your property sits in a conservation area or is listed, you’ll likely face extra scrutiny. That doesn’t necessarily mean your plans will be denied—it just means you need to pay closer attention to preserving heritage features and use materials that are in keeping with the building’s original style. For more information about dealing with sensitive sites, be sure to read our dedicated Conservation and Listed Buildings section [LINK TO CONSERVATION AND LISTINGS GUIDE].

Building a Strong Application

One of the most common reasons planning permission or building control approval is delayed (or even refused) is the lack of a well-prepared application. From missing drawings to incomplete forms, it’s easy to overlook something crucial when you’re new to the process. To reduce the likelihood of setbacks:

• Do Your Homework: Research local planning policies, read about relevant case studies in the area, and talk to neighbors who have undergone similar projects.

• Seek Professional Advice: Consider consulting architects, surveyors, or planning consultants who specialize in local planning requirements. They can offer professional drawings, structural calculations, and expert opinions.

• Be Thorough: Ensure you’ve included all required documents, including drawings, design statements, and any environmental assessments if needed.

• Stay Organized: Keep track of deadlines, communications with the council, and site inspection appointments. Having a clear timeline helps you stay on top of each step.

If you’d like a detailed list of everything you’ll need for your application, take a look at our Planning Application Checklist [LINK TO CHECKLIST PAGE].

Engaging with the Local Community

In many cases, particularly for projects that may have a significant visual or environmental impact, a good relationship with the local community can help streamline your planning process. The council often values public feedback, and neighbors’ objections can sometimes slow or complicate an application.

To foster a positive relationship, consider these approaches:

• Early Communication: Discuss your plans with neighbors or local community groups to address potential concerns before you formally apply.

• Transparent Design: Show how your project respects the local environment and, where possible, improves it.

• Invitation for Feedback: Encourage constructive suggestions and demonstrate how you are willing to adjust your plans to accommodate community interests, where feasible.

For tips on managing community engagement effectively, see our Good Neighbour Guide [LINK TO COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT GUIDE].

Overcoming Common Challenges

Every planning or building control journey comes with hiccups. It might be a delay in receiving council feedback, a disagreement over design elements, or even an unexpected complication like discovering protected wildlife on your land. While it’s impossible to avoid all obstacles, knowing the most common issues upfront can help you prepare:

• Application Revisions: Councils often request amendments to initial plans. By responding promptly and clearly, you can minimize delays.

• Technical Reports: You may need specialized reports, such as flood risk assessments or ecological surveys. Identifying these needs early reduces last-minute surprises.

• Appeals: If your application is refused, you can appeal the decision. An appeal involves further scrutiny, so it’s vital to present a robust case. Patience and organization are key.

We have a series of real-life stories and blog posts showcasing various local challenges and how they were resolved. Dive into these case studies in our Blog Archive [LINK TO BLOG PAGE] to gain insights from others who’ve navigated similar hurdles.

Staying Updated with Local Policy Changes

Planning policies aren’t static. National directives, new council strategies, and even changes in environmental or heritage listings can shift the requirements over time. Keeping tabs on these updates is crucial if you’re in the midst of a project or planning to start one soon. At PlanningPermissionHelp.com, we do our best to regularly update our articles and resources to reflect the latest guidelines. Check our Latest Updates section [LINK TO LATEST NEWS PAGE] for recent policy changes and announcements.

Sustainability and Green Building Practices

With Brighton & Hove’s strong emphasis on eco-conscious living, many property owners are looking into sustainable building practices. Whether it’s installing solar panels, using locally sourced materials, or incorporating green roofs, these eco-friendly methods can sometimes introduce additional planning considerations—particularly if your property is in a sensitive area.

By planning ahead and highlighting the environmental benefits of your design, you might find the council more receptive to your application. Learn more about green building principles and how they can fit into local planning guidelines in our Sustainability Hub [LINK TO SUSTAINABILITY GUIDE].

Working with Professionals

While we strive to provide detailed guidance, you may find that certain projects necessitate hiring professionals like planning consultants, architects, engineers, or surveyors. Professional input can be especially beneficial if you’re tackling large-scale works, dealing with listed buildings, or navigating complex site conditions. Here are some tips for choosing the right professionals:

• Experience in Brighton & Hove: Local knowledge goes a long way. Aim for experts who have a track record in the region.

• Relevant Qualifications: Check that professionals have the necessary certifications or memberships (e.g., RIBA for architects, RICS for surveyors).

• Clear Communication: Planning or building control specialists should be able to explain regulations in a straightforward manner, ensuring you’re involved and informed.

For those seeking more in-depth support, we will provide a list of recommended professionals in our Local Experts Directory [LINK TO DIRECTORY PAGE]. Each listing includes a brief overview of their expertise and contact details. However we are currently going through the process of vetting local service based businesses before making any recommendations.

Knowing Your Rights and Responsibilities

Navigating planning permission and building control isn’t just about ticking boxes for the council. It’s also about understanding your rights as a property owner or tenant. At the same time, there are community-wide responsibilities that come with property development. For instance:

• Party Wall Agreements: If your project borders another property, the Party Wall Act might come into play, requiring written notice and agreements with your neighbors.

• Public Rights of Way: You can’t obstruct footpaths or bridleways without the necessary permissions. Ensure you’ve accounted for any public access routes that run near or through your land.

• Enforcement Action: If you proceed without the correct permissions or fail to meet building regulations, you could face enforcement measures, fines, or be required to undo any unauthorized work.

We discuss these legal responsibilities in depth in our Rights and Obligations Guide [LINK TO RIGHTS GUIDE], helping you avoid legal pitfalls down the line.

Community Benefits of Proper Planning

It’s easy to see planning permission and building control as purely bureaucratic. But when approached responsibly, these processes help maintain the qualities that make Brighton & Hove such a desirable place to live, work, and visit. Proper planning:

• Protects Heritage: Ensures that historical areas remain visually cohesive and preserves the city’s unique charm.

• Promotes Safety: Building regulations verify that all structures meet minimum standards of health, fire, and structural soundness.

• Encourages Sustainability: By following guidelines, developers help reduce carbon footprints and contribute to the city’s green objectives.

When we comply with planning and building requirements, we’re not just protecting our own interests. We’re contributing to the long-term well-being of the entire community.

Next Steps: Getting Started on Your Project

If you’re at the beginning of your journey—maybe you have a rough idea for a house extension or you’re thinking about changing a shop into a café—our recommendation is to start by gathering information:

1. Check Our Guides: Browse the main sections at PlanningPermissionHelp.com to find articles relevant to your specific type of project.

2. Assess Your Property: Understand whether you’re in a conservation area, if your building is listed, or if there are any local constraints.

3. Outline Your Goals: Create a clear, concise summary of what you aim to achieve and why. This will shape your discussions with professionals or the council.

4. Draft a Timeline: Estimate how long each stage might take (from planning application to site inspection) to manage your expectations effectively.

Should you have additional queries or want to explore a particular topic in more detail, consider reaching out to us directly through our Contact Page [LINK TO CONTACT PAGE]. We’re here to offer as much clarity as possible, pointing you toward official council resources, case studies, or professional advice when needed.

Staying Connected

Because planning policies and building regulations are subject to change, we recommend staying informed throughout your project. Keep an eye on local news, follow council updates, and check our website regularly for the latest articles, guides, and community stories. You can also sign up for our newsletter [LINK TO NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP], where we share updates about any significant shifts in planning law, building regulations, or local council decisions.

Our Commitment to Transparency

PlanningPermissionHelp.com is a free resource designed to demystify the process of securing planning permission and meeting building control standards. We are not affiliated with the Brighton & Hove City Council, nor do we provide construction services. Our objective is purely educational—we consolidate information from reputable sources, provide explanatory content, and encourage best practices. By guiding you toward the correct channels and showing you how to interpret local regulations, we hope to reduce confusion and ease stress for anyone taking on a property development project in our city.

If you’re curious about where we source our data, how often we update our website, or want to provide feedback, please visit our About Page [LINK TO ABOUT PAGE] and review our FAQs [LINK TO FAQ PAGE]. We value community input and regularly refine our content based on the questions and concerns we receive.

Start Exploring PlanningPermissionHelp.com

Now that you have a broad overview of what we do, feel free to dive deeper:

• Explore our in-depth guides to planning permission, building control, and local regulations.

• Check out stories from Brighton & Hove residents who’ve successfully navigated the process.

• Learn how to future-proof your project with sustainability measures.

• Discover the best ways to collaborate with local professionals and neighbors for a smooth application journey.

Remember, no matter how small or large your project may be, preparation is essential. Understanding the processes and rules is the key to minimizing setbacks, saving money, and achieving an end result that benefits not just you, but the entire community.

Closing Thoughts

Every planning story is unique. Even if two properties are on the same street, the specifics of their applications could differ significantly based on design, heritage considerations, or environmental impact. The best first step is always to arm yourself with accurate information. By doing so, you’ll feel more confident in your decisions and better equipped to communicate your plans to the council, professionals, and your neighbors.

At PlanningPermissionHelp.com, we’re here to help you gain that clarity. Our free articles, resources, and updates aim to simplify a process that can otherwise feel intimidating. Feel free to explore, learn, and contact us if you have any questions. Planning permission and building control don’t have to be insurmountable hurdles—together, we can make them manageable stepping stones on your path to a successful property project in Brighton & Hove.

Get in Touch with Us

Reach out for planning permission advice and support anytime.