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The Self-build and Custom Housebuilding Act 2015 places a duty on local authorities in England to keep a register of people who are interested in Self-build or custom build projects in their area.

What are Self-build projects?

Self-build projects are defined as those where someone directly organises the design and construction of their own home. This could include traditional DIY Self-build home to projects where the Self-builder employs someone to build their home for them. Community-led projects can also be defined as Self-build.

The Register

This register has two parts. Part one of the register is for those who have a local connection to Stevenage and part two of the register is for all other applicants.

For those whose applications are determined as eligible for part one of the register, we are required to find a serviced Self-build and custom housebuilding plot to offer to the applicant to purchase within three years from the base period. The fee for entry onto part one of the register is £300 (£250 plus vat).

The fee for entry onto part two of the register is £102 (£85 plus vat). There is no requirement for us to find sites for applicants on part two of the Register.

You can find out more information on the Self-build and Custom Housebuilding - Answers to your questions page.

Eligibility

In order to be entered onto the Self-build and Custom Housebuilding Register, applicants must meet the eligibility criteria.

  • You are over 18.
  • The property will be your sole or main residence.
  • You are a British citizen or a national of an EEA State other than the UK or Switzerland.
  • You are able to provide evidence to demonstrate that you have sufficient resources to purchase a plot of land and build a dwelling.
Register interest in Self-build and Custom Housebuilding - opens new windowExternal Link - opens in a new window

Associations

If you are applying as an Association for Self-build and custom housebuilding, one person must be nominated lead contact. All applicants must meet the eligibility criteria and local connection test (if applicable). The costs above are person costs and will apply to each member of the association.

Applications will be determined within 28 days. For applications that are unsuccessful, the fee will be refunded. There is currently no annual fee for being on the register. As part of this process applicants will be required to provide proof of affordability and local connection (if applicable), and the payment will be required. 

If you wish to be removed from the register, please contact the Planning Policy team on 01438 242698.

Planning Policy

Stevenage Borough Council

Daneshill House

Danestrete

Stevenage

Herts

SG1 1HN

planning.policy@stevenage.gov.uk

01438 242158