Pre-application advice service

We need as much information from you about your proposals as possible.

Depending on the type of development, this will normally include at least:

1. Our completed online pre-application form. This should include:

• your details and contact information
• you preferred choice for response
• any consultees you think we should include

2. A full description of your proposal. This should include any relevant history you know about the site.

3. A location plan with the site outlined with a redline.

4. Plans to show the development proposed. This should include any added floor space or enlargements clearly identified. These should be scaled plans which include:

• elevations
• sections
• photos or sketches - photos are often very useful to understand the proposal and its context

5. Payment is required at the time of submission, view our pre-application fees.

Complex or significant proposals

Complex proposals will need more information. You may need to take advice to help you prepare this information from:

• an independent planning specialist
• specialist consultants

We cannot insist that you provide this level of information at this stage. It will help us to provide more detailed advice if you can.

1. A topographical site survey

2. other information to help us understand existing and proposed site levels in relation to the surrounding area. This may include photos.

3. A copy of reports or assessments that have already been undertaken. This could be:

• draft design and access statements
• planning statements
• tree surveys
• heritage statements
• drainage reports
• ecological surveys
• structural surveys
• landscape and visual impact assessment
• landscape visual appraisal
• viability assessments
• draft legal agreements

When we get your application, we will check if you have sent enough information to help us understand:

• the site
• its surroundings
• the proposed scheme

If we need more information, we will contact you.

Timescale for issuing written advice will only begin once we have enough information and we have received the appropriate fee.

Apply

Apply now

Contact Planning

If you need help applying, contact planning.

Responses and timescales

Current timescales for response are 12 weeks for major pre application enquiries and 8 weeks for all other types.

If you have requested a meeting the planning officer will contact, you to arrange this.

Follow up advice

An extra fee will apply to any follow up advice or to discuss the advice we give you after we have sent you a formal response. You will need to:

• Send your request by email, provide reference number 
• attach any amended documents or plans
• pay the fee

We will add your follow up request to the current record. We aim to give any requests for follow up advice to your original case officer.

Building Control

In addition to planning permission for your building work you may also need Building Control approval under the building regulations.  The building regulations are minimum standards for the design and construction of, or alterations to, virtually every building. They contain a list of requirements providing standards for construction and energy efficiency whilst taking into account the health and safety and needs of building occupants.  They cover all aspects of the build process, including foundations, damp proofing, stability, insulation, ventilation, heating, sanitation, fire protection and means of escape. They also make sure there are adequate facilities in certain types of buildings for people with disabilities.

At Dorset Council Building Control, we are committed to ensuring a high level of customer service meeting the need of the regulations, we will work with you to provide:

• competitive quotes bespoke to your project that are good value.
• a locate you a local qualified Officer who knows the area, the builders, and the architects.
• a service that is totally independent, impartial, and accountable.
• a customer focused service to help you throughout the entire project.

For further information and an initial discussion on all the services that we provide please visit Building Control.  You can also find more information by visiting Local Authority Building Control website at www.labc.co.uk or www.labcfrontdoor.co.uk

Contact Planning

If you need have any questions, contact planning.