Residential Planning

The Planning system plays an important role in modern society by helping to protect the environment in our towns and cities and in the countryside. Planning regulations have to cover many different situations and even the provisions which affect the average householder are quite detailed.

The general planning principles and the procedures for making planning applications for matters such as house extensions i.e. conservatories and dormer windows and buildings and other structures on land around your house i.e. garages and swimming pools are described in the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (ODPM) booklet, Planning : A Guide for Householders.

The Planning Portal website is the UK Government's planning resource and offers a wide range of services and guidance on the planning system. It is regularly updated and allows readers to learn more about the planning system, find out about nearby development, appeal against planning decisions and research the latest government policy. In certain areas and for certain types of planning permission the Planning Portal also allows users to submit planning applications electronically to their local District Council. Please note that from January 1 2006 all County Durham District Council websites will also allow users to submit planning applications electronically through their websites.

Within County Durham Parliament has given the responsibility for all planning matters with the exception of matters relating to minerals and waste development and development related to the County Council’s own functions to District Councils. If you have any queries about any District Council planning matter, the first thing to do is to contact your local District Council.Please choose the appropriate District Council to find out more information:

Planning information for Chester-le-Street area.
Planning information for Derwentside area.
Planning information for Durham City area.
Planning information for Easington area.
Planning information for Sedgefield area.
Planning information for Teesdale area.
Planning information for Wear Valley area.