Lawful Development Certificate

If you want to be sure that the current use of a building is lawful for planning purposes or your proposal does not require planning permission, you can apply for an (LDC).

LDC doesn’t have to be, but there may be times when you need to confirm that the name, usage or activity involved in it is lawful for planning purposes.

You can apply for LDC at your local council through the planning portal online application service. The Council must provide appropriate information to the Council for the decision to make, or it may be refused. You may have to pay a fee.

Often the issues involved with LDC are complex and you can benefit from professional advice if you decide that you need to apply for a certificate. Your LPA planning officers can also help. They will tell you the information they need to help you with your application.

You may appeal if your application is partially or completely denied or different from your request or you are not settled within an eight-week period. Appeals from the Planning Inspectorate.