A guide to the full plans and building notice procedure
When can Full Plans be used?
For all types of building without any restriction.
What is required with the submission?
- Two copies of drawings, specification and, if required, calculations.
- A site location plan.
- Completed application form.
- Appropriate plan charge.
- If the work to a building is sdesignated under the Fire Precautions Act 1971 (As Amended) a further two sets of plans detailing fire safety measures that are to be taken.
What are designated buildings?
Offices, shops or railway premises, Hotels or boarding houses on industrial buildings.
What will the Council do with my application
- Your application is registered and an acknowledgement sent to either yourself or agent.
- The plans are checked for compliance with the Building Regulations. If there are any defects you or your agent will be notified. We will try to convey these within 21 days of receiving your application.
- When the plans comply with the Building Regulations we will Approve your application
- If either you or your agent do not resolve the defects within 5 weeks, extendable to 2 months of deposit, The Council has a statutory duty to reject the application.
- Following rejection, amended plans may be submitted for approval at any time. No further charge is payable provided the work is substantially the same.
Building Notice
When can a Building Notice be given?
For all types of building work except to buildings that are designated under the Fire Precautions Act 1971 (As Amended.
What is required with the submission?
- A site location plan.
- Completed application form.
- Appropriate charge.
Unlike Full Plans other than a site plan, drawings are not normally required. We can request additional information in order to show compliance with the Building Regulations. If this becomes necessary we will write to either you or your agent.
What will The Council do with my Building Notice?
If acceptable, it will be acknowledged within 10 days of receipt.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages of Full Plans
- Plans approved if suitable and Notice sent to you or your agent.
- Protection of approved plans.
- Usually a two part charge for our service. Plans and Inspection Charge.
- Your builder works from approved plans.
- Approval Notice to hand onto any future purchaser of the premises
- On completion of the work a Completion Certificate can be requested.
Disadvantages of Full Plans
- You wait for plans to be prepared.
- You may have agents fees to pay.
Advantages of Building Notice
- No plans to prepare.
- Only site plan to prepare.
Disadvantage of Building Notice
- You may not know that the work is incorrect until it is inspected.
- All charges (Plans and Inspection) are paid at the time of deposit (Non Refundable)
- No approval notice
- No Completion Certificate
- Plans and calculations are sometimes required to support your application
- All work must comply with the Building Regulations. Without plans a clear knowledge of the requirements is essential.
What can happen if I do not submit an application?
If you proceed with the work without applying you are contravening the Building Regulations.
Do I need Planning Permission?
Please contact the planning enquiry desk if in doubt. Email planning@stevenage.gov.uk or telephone 01438 242838.