Many people assume that once they have bought land in Surrey, they can start building right away, but that isn’t the case. Before any construction can take place, planning permission is required. Without it, any work done could be considered illegal, leading to costly fines or even the demolition of structures. Planning permission is official approval from the local council that ensures your project meets regulations, follows environmental guidelines, and doesn’t negatively impact the surrounding area. If you’re planning to develop your land, securing this approval should be your top priority. The process can be complicated, but understanding the key steps will make it easier. The first step is checking whether your land has existing planning permission or any restrictions that could impact development. Some areas, such as Green Belt land and conservation zones, have strict rules, and failing to check these in advance can lead to setbacks. Next, you need to submit a formal application to your local planning authority, detailing what you intend to build, how it will be used, and how it aligns with local planning policies. A well-prepared application increases the chances of approval and prevents unnecessary delays. Factors such as site access, infrastructure, and environmental impact play a crucial role in determining whether permission is granted. If your application is refused, you have options to appeal or modify your plans to meet council requirements. Securing planning permission can feel overwhelming, but with expert guidance, it becomes a smoother process. Whether you are building a home, a commercial property, or making structural changes, getting the right approvals early on will save time, money, and stress. In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about securing planning permission after buying land in Surrey.
How To Buy Land In Surrey Without Planning Issues
Purchasing land in Surrey is a major investment, and the last thing you want is to purchase a plot only to find out you can’t build on it. Many buyers assume that planning permission is just a formality, but this isn’t always the case. To avoid setbacks, it’s crucial to check the land’s status, potential restrictions, and planning history before making a purchase. Below are the essential steps to ensure you buy land that can be developed without unnecessary complications.
1. Check The Planning History: Before committing to a purchase, visit the local council’s planning portal to review the land’s history. If previous applications have been rejected, find out why. Some issues, such as environmental concerns or access problems, may prevent future approvals.
2. Identify Planning Restrictions: Not all land is suitable for development. Some areas fall under Green Belt or conservation zones, where building regulations are strict. If the land is in a protected area, obtaining planning permission may be difficult, requiring special approvals or design adjustments to comply with local policies.
3. Assess Infrastructure And Access: For planning permission to be granted, the land must be accessible and connected to essential services. Before buying, check whether the plot has:
- Road access – If the land has no legal right of way, you may struggle to get approval.
- Water and electricity supply – Installing utilities can be expensive and impact planning approval.
- Drainage solutions – Some councils require proof that the land can support adequate drainage before granting permission.
4. Evaluate Environmental Factors: Protected trees, flood risks, and wildlife habitats can all influence whether planning permission will be granted. A tree survey or ecological assessment may be required before development is approved. If there are Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) on the land, you may need special permission to build.
5. Work With A Planning Consultant: Hiring a professional consultant or an arboricultural expert, like Canopy Consultancy, can help you assess potential planning issues before purchasing. Experts can guide you through planning policies, advise on how to increase the likelihood of approval, and ensure the land meets all requirements for development.
6. Look For Land With Existing Planning Permission
The safest way to avoid planning issues is to buy land with outline or full planning permission already in place. This means the council has already assessed the plot’s suitability for development, reducing risks and delays in the approval process.: Taking these steps before purchasing land in Surrey will save time, money, and stress. Proper research and professional guidance can ensure you secure a plot that can be successfully developed, avoiding costly surprises down the line.
Once you have successfully bought land in Surrey, the next step is to secure planning permission before starting any development. This process can be complex, but with the right approach, you can improve your chances of approval. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the planning process smoothly. 1. Check The Local Development Plan: Every local council has a development plan outlining the types of projects they approve. Before applying, review these policies on your local planning authority’s website to ensure your plans align with their regulations. If your proposal doesn’t fit the guidelines, you may need to adjust your designs to improve your chances of approval. 2. Conduct A Site Survey: Planning applications often require site assessments to address environmental and structural concerns. Common surveys include: 3. Choose The Right Type Of Planning Application: You can apply for different types of planning permission depending on your project: If you’re unsure which to apply for, consulting a planning expert while buying land in Surrey or even before, this will help determine the best route. 4. Submit Your Application With Strong Supporting Documents: Your planning application must include: Incomplete applications are one of the most common reasons for delays or rejections, so ensure all documents are included before submission. 5. Consult A Planning Expert For Faster Approval: Planning permission can be complicated, and hiring a professional consultant can increase your chances of success. At Canopy Consultancy, we specialise in tree surveys, planning applications, and risk assessments, ensuring that your project meets all necessary requirements. By following these steps, you can secure planning permission efficiently and move forward with your development without unnecessary setbacks.
Once you have submitted your planning application, the next question is: how long does planning permission take in Surrey? The answer depends on several factors, including the size of the project, the complexity of the plans, and the efficiency of the local council in processing applications. 1. Standard Processing Times While these are the average timelines, delays can occur if additional information is required or if there are objections from local authorities or neighbours. 2. Factors That Can Delay Planning Permission Several issues can slow down the planning process: 3. How To Speed Up The Process If you want to secure planning permission as quickly as possible, consider the following strategies: 4. What Happens If Your Application Is Delayed? If your planning permission is taking longer than expected, you can: By understanding the planning permission timeline in Surrey and taking proactive steps, you can avoid unnecessary delays and move forward with your development as soon as possible.
Not every planning application is approved. Many landowners face rejection due to factors they could have addressed before submitting their application. Understanding the common reasons for refusal can help you avoid costly delays and increase your chances of success when applying for planning permission after buying land in Surrey. 1. Design And Size Issues Local councils often reject applications if the proposed development is considered too large, out of character, or unsuitable for the area. If your design does not match the surrounding buildings or disrupts the existing aesthetic, it may face objections. 2. Impact On Neighbours If your building affects the privacy, light, or views of neighbouring properties, it could lead to objections. Councils take local concerns seriously, and strong opposition from neighbours can reduce approval chances. 3. Environmental And Wildlife Concerns Protected trees, conservation areas, and wildlife habitats can restrict development. If your land has Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs), or if rare species like bats or badgers are present, additional surveys and approvals may be required. 4. Lack Of Infrastructure And Accessibility If the land lacks proper road access, drainage, or utility connections, councils may reject your application due to concerns over sustainability and practicality. 5. Green Belt And Protected Land Restrictions Developing land in Green Belt areas or designated conservation zones is heavily regulated. Councils often refuse applications that do not comply with strict land-use policies. By addressing these common planning permission issues before submitting your application, you can improve your chances of approval and move forward with your project smoothly. If you need expert guidance, Canopy Consultancy is here to help ensure your development meets all planning requirements.How To Secure Planning Permission After Buying Land In Surrey
How Long Does Planning Permission Take In Surrey?
Common Reasons Planning Permission Gets Refused And How To Avoid Them
How to avoid this: Work with an architect who understands local planning policies and ensures the design aligns with the council’s guidelines.
How to avoid this: Engage with neighbours before submitting your application and adjust your plans if necessary to minimise disruption.
How to avoid this: Conduct tree and ecological surveys early and include the results in your planning application. Companies like Canopy Consultancy can assist with this process.
How to avoid this: Ensure your plans include clear access routes and a strategy for connecting to essential services like electricity, water, and sewage systems.
How to avoid this: Check if the land is in a restricted area before purchasing and consult a planning expert to explore legal development options.
Let Canopy Consultancy Help You Secure Planning Permission Without Delays
Securing planning permission after buying land in Surrey is one of the most important steps in turning your investment into a successful development. Without the right approvals, you could face delays, extra costs, or even legal action. The process can seem complicated, but with the right preparation and expert guidance, it doesn’t have to be.
At Canopy Consultancy, we understand the challenges that come with planning applications. Whether you need tree surveys, risk assessments, or expert advice, we make sure your application meets all requirements so that you have the best chance of approval. Our team works closely with landowners, developers, and councils to ensure that every step of the process is handled efficiently.
If you want to avoid planning permission refusals, it’s essential to choose the right land, prepare a strong application, and address potential objections before submitting your plans. This means conducting tree and ecological surveys, ensuring infrastructure is in place, and working with professionals who can guide you through the council’s requirements.
The longer you wait to secure planning permission, the more risks you face. Rejected applications can cost time and money, but with the right strategy, you can get approval smoothly and move forward with confidence.
At Canopy Consultancy, we take the stress out of the planning process. We provide expert planning support, detailed surveys, and professional advice to help you get the results you need. If you’re ready to secure planning permission quickly and without hassle, we’re here to help.
Call us today on01234 567 890 to discuss your planning needs, or visit Canopy Consultancy to get expert guidance on your project. Don’t let delays hold you back—let’s get your development approved the right way.
