Discharge a condition

Planning permissions often include conditions that require further details to be approved, such as samples of materials or construction details. These details must be formally agreed by us, sometimes before any work can begin on site.

How do I apply to discharge a condition?

To discharge a planning condition, you must submit a Request for Approval of Planning Conditions using the standard application form, or through the Planning Portal 

How much will it cost?

The fee depends on the type of development. You can find the latest guidance and a fee calculator on the Planning Portal website: How much does a planning application cost? – Planning Portal.

• There is no fee for conditions that relate only to listed building consent.
• If your application includes both planning permission and listed building consent, a fee will apply to the planning permission element.
• The same fees apply if you are requesting confirmation that conditions have already been complied with.

What if I need to discharge more than one condition?

The fee is charged per application, not per condition.
If you need to discharge several conditions, you can reduce costs by submitting all required information and documents together in a single application.

Will I be charged again if the details are not approved?

No. If we request further information or revisions while assessing your application, you will not be charged an additional fee, as long as it relates to the same request.

Will I be charged if I want to change details that have already been approved?

Yes. If you submit new or revised details after conditions have already been approved, a new application fee will be required.

What happens if I don’t discharge my conditions?

Some conditions must be discharged before development starts.
If these conditions are not approved at the correct stage, the development may be considered unlawful and could result in formal enforcement action.

How long will it take?

We aim to process applications as quickly as possible. By law, we have:

• Eight weeks to make a decision, or
• 16 weeks for developments requiring an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)

If a decision is not made within these timeframes, you may appeal to the Secretary of State.
If no response is provided within 12 weeks, the application fee must be refunded.