UK nations & regions: planning and building rules

This hub summarises where rules differ and links only to official government sources. It is general information, not legal or planning advice. Always check the live official page before you rely on a rule.

England

In England, planning applications and permitted development are explained on GOV.UK planning permission and the Planning Portal. Building Regulations and the Approved Documents are published on GOV.UK Approved Documents.

Scotland

Scotland has its own planning system and building standards. Start with mygov.scot planning permission and gov.scot planning policy. Building standards guidance is on gov.scot building standards.

Wales

Wales has devolved planning and building control. Official guidance is on gov.wales planning permission and gov.wales Building Regulations.

Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland’s planning and building control sit with local councils and the Department for Infrastructure. See nidirect planning and infrastructure-ni Building Regulations.

Areas hub

For regions and cities across the UK, including London borough guides nested under London, see the UK Areas hub.

Sources checked 27 October 2026: GOV.UK, Planning Portal, mygov.scot, gov.scot, gov.wales, nidirect, infrastructure-ni.gov.uk. We do not invent rules; if an official page changes, follow that page.