Planning drawings are used to show a local planning authority what is being proposed. They usually show the existing property, the proposed changes, the position of the work, and how the project may affect the site or surrounding area. These drawings may include floor plans, elevations, roof plans, site plans, location plans and supporting visuals.
For general guidance, visit the Planning Portal or GOV.UK’s guide to when planning permission is needed.
Building control drawings focus on how the work will be built. They help show how a project can meet the Building Regulations, including structure, insulation, drainage, fire safety, ventilation and general construction standards.
For official guidance, see GOV.UK’s page on Building Regulations approval and the government’s Approved Documents for Building Regulations.
No. Planning permission and building control approval are separate. Planning deals with whether the development is acceptable in planning terms, such as size, appearance, use and impact on neighbours. Building control deals with whether the work is designed and built safely and correctly.
A project may need planning permission, building control approval, both, or sometimes neither. The Planning Portal explains the difference here: Planning permission and Building Regulations approval.
Not always. Some home improvements may fall under permitted development rights, meaning a full planning application may not be required. However, this depends on the property, location, size, previous alterations and any local restrictions.
You can check common project guidance here: Planning Portal common projects.
Many projects do need building control approval, especially extensions, garage conversions, loft conversions, structural alterations, drainage works and changes affecting fire safety, insulation or ventilation. Some minor work may be exempt, and some specialist work may be covered by a competent person scheme.
Before starting work, check GOV.UK’s guide: Building Regulations approval: when you need approval.
A typical planning application may require existing and proposed floor plans, existing and proposed elevations, a site location plan, a block plan and sometimes roof plans or supporting visuals. The exact requirements depend on the project and the local authority.
You can find your local council here: Find your local council.
Building control drawings are usually more technical than planning drawings. They may include construction build-ups, foundation details, wall and roof details, insulation notes, drainage notes, fire safety information and specification notes. Some projects may also require structural calculations from a qualified structural engineer.
The main legal framework for England is the Building Regulations 2010.
No designer can guarantee planning permission or building control approval. Decisions are made by the relevant local authority, building control body or registered building control approver. KPLan can prepare clear, well-presented drawings to support your application and help reduce avoidable delays caused by unclear or incomplete information.
How can KPLan help?
KPLan prepares planning drawings, building control drawings, floor plans, garage plans, extension drawings, HMO layout plans, site plans and supporting visuals for domestic and small property projects across Durham and the North East.
This FAQ is general guidance only and is not legal advice. Always check requirements for your specific property and project before starting work.
