A Simple Guide for Householders

What is a planning condition?

When we grant planning permission, we often include conditions. These are rules you must follow as part of your permission. Some conditions must be approved by the Authority before you start work, while others must be approved before you occupy or use the building.

What does “discharge of conditions” mean?

If your permission includes a condition that asks you to submit extra information (like materials, landscaping or drainage details), you need to send this to us through a formal application. This is called a “discharge of conditions” application.

When do I need to discharge a condition?

• Before starting work – if it is a pre-commencement condition.
• Before occupying or using the building – if it is a pre-occupation condition.
• Some conditions do not need an application and just need to be complied with during the build.

How do I apply?

You must submit a discharge of conditions application using the correct form on the Planning Portal, along with any documents the condition asks for. The form you’re looking for is the ‘Approval of details reserved by a condition (discharge)’.

Is there a fee?

Yes. Please check the Planning Portal Fee Calculator to see how much this is for your development.

What do I need to include?

Please make sure you send:

• A completed application form
• The documents required by the condition (for example, a materials sample or drawing)
• The correct fee

Clearly state which condition(s) you want to discharge.

What happens next?

Once we receive your application, we will check it to make sure everything is included. If anything is missing, we will ask you to provide it.

After validation, a planning officer will review the details and decide whether they meet the requirement of the condition.

How long does it take?

We aim to decide applications within 8 weeks. Simple requests are often quicker, but more complex conditions may take longer.

What will the decision look like?

We will send you a written decision confirming whether the condition has been discharged. If we cannot discharge it, we will explain why and what changes you need to make.

Helpful tips

• Read your decision notice carefully – it tells you exactly what each condition requires.
• Allow time in your project plan for discharging conditions.
• Start early – especially if you need specialist reports or surveys.