07 September 2008Outline planning applications
These contain less detail then the full planning applications and can reserve a number of details such as external appearance, layout, access and generally establish the principle of a specific development. Conditions are usually attached to set out guidelines for the final development of the site. Outline planning applications cannot be made for a change of use. The Council does not normally grant outline planning permission in conservation areas or where the setting of listed buildings is affected.
Variation or removal of condition
An application can be made to vary the terms of a condition attached to a planning consent or to apply to remove it. The Council will consider why the condition was originally attached and whether there have been any changes in circumstances which may allow that condition to be removed or varied to an alternative wording or restriction based on the information submitted.
Certificates of Lawful Use or Development
An application can be made to establish whether an existing or proposed use or development is lawful. Either because it is not classified as development requiring planning permission or by virtue of the length of time which has passed, the development or use may now be immune from enforcement action. Often householders make applications for proposed Lawful Development Certificates for small extensions which do not need permission as they are classed as permitted development under the General Permitted Development Order 1995.
Reserved matters
The Council will require further details to be submitted for approval following the granting of outline planning permission. Reserved matters application must normally be submitted within three years of the date of the outline permission, otherwise it will lapse. In some cases, further details will be reserved by conditions imposed when granting full planning permission.
Full planning application
This include all details of the proposed development including site and building plans and types of building materials to be used. Development must normally start within three years of the date of the permission, otherwise permission will lapse.
In the course of dealing with an application, the Council may discuss and agree with the applicant alterations to the original proposal which will make it more acceptable. If the amendments are substantial, a fresh application may be required.
Applicants have by law to pay a fee to the Council when making an application. Details of fees, which are charged according to a nationally laid-down scale, are available from the Council. Detailed guidance notes on the completion of application forms are also available.
Other applications can also be made for example, Advert Consent, Listed Building Consent, and Conservation Area Approval.
If your are proposing amendments to a listed building or work in a Conservation Area, please contact the Development Control Section.
Advert Control
Most outdoor advertising requires consent with only a few limited exceptions. The law regarding the placement of adverts is complex. However, the Council can grant consent for a period of five years and deemed consent for certain categories. Most illuminated adverts need consent. The Council can challenge any advertisement put up with deemed consent, requiring it to be removal if it is considered to have a negative affect on the area or public safety. The owner has a right of appeal to the Secretary of State. Sevenoaks District Council is not responsible for the content of adverts. If you would like to comment or complain about the content of an advert visit the Advertising Standards Agency website or contact them by e-mailing enquiries@asa.org.uk.
If you would like to put up an outdoor advertisement, or if you want more information please contact the Council's Development Control Section.
