Residents across Greater Cambridge can now access an online tool to help them decide if they are likely to need planning permission before carrying out building works or making changes to a property.

Greater Cambridge Shared Planning (GCSP) has launched the "Do I Need Planning Permission?" service, a free online service that guides users through a series of questions about their proposed project and provides tailored guidance based on planning legislation and local property constraints.

Planning permission may be required for a wide range of developments, but some proposals can be carried out under permitted development rights without the need for a formal planning application. The new service has been introduced to help residents access clear guidance before starting a project, at a time that suits them.

“Do I Need Planning Permission?” will help householders and those considering small-scale developments understand whether planning permission may be needed for their building works or change of use. It can also identify planning restrictions that may affect a property, such as whether it is a listed building or located within a conservation area.

To use the service, residents simply need the address of the property and details of the changes they are considering. Through a series of structured questions, the tool then provides guidance based on the answers given. Results are for guidance only and do not constitute an official planning decision or legal advice, and users are advised to apply for a Lawful Development Certificate before starting work.

Cllr Henry Batchelor, South Cambridgeshire District Council’s Lead Cabinet Member for Planning, said: “Figuring out whether planning permission is needed can sometimes be challenging. This new online tool will help residents find information more quickly and understand the planning requirements that may apply to their property. By guiding people through a series of questions and providing tailored advice, the service will make it easier for residents to take the first steps in planning their projects."

Cllr Katie Thornburrow, Leader of Cambridge City Council and Cabinet Member for Strategy, Planning and External Partnerships, said: "We're making it easier for residents to access planning guidance through this well-designed self-service tool that provides information when people need it. It means residents can quickly check whether planning permission may be required and understand any restrictions that could affect their plans. As one of the busiest planning services in the country, we also expect the tool to help reduce routine enquiries so our planning officers and support staff can spend more time processing applications and providing specialist advice on more complex proposals."

The new "Do I Need Planning Permission?" service is available now on the Greater Cambridge Shared Planning website.

If you require a formal decision as to whether changes of use or building works, proposed or existing, are lawful you should apply for a Lawful Development Certificate.

Why the councils have developed the tool

Greater Cambridge Shared Planning processes more than 7,000 planning applications every year, whilst also receiving a large number of planning enquiries, requiring substantial staff time to respond to routine questions.

The new service has been funded through Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, and is expected to improve efficiency by helping residents find answers to common planning questions through a self-service platform, freeing up planning officers and support staff to concentrate on planning applications and more complex planning matters.