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Householder guidance


Householder design guide

The Householder design guide has been replaced by the Cornwall Design Guide adopted in December 2021. 

Please visit our dedicated design web page for further information.

Design guide

Do I need planning permission?

You can make some changes to your house without planning permission. This called is "permitted development". 

Find out about permitted development

The Planning Portal has a tool for householder permitted development rights. The interactive guide gives information about household projects.

View the interactive guide

Find out if you need planning permission: Do I need planning consent or building regulations form. This service:

  • has a fee

  • provides an informal response. 

Our do I need planning permission? page gives more information.

lawful development certificate will give a formal response.

Householder submissions guide

 The Householder submission guide has been superseded by the Cornwall Council Validation Guide.

Ecology advice for work on eaves and roofs

Householders and contractors must ensure that:

  • bats and

  • wild birds

are not affected. Please seek advice if you are in any doubt.

Swifts swallows and house martins

Swifts, swallows and house martins are amongst the most endearing of British breeding birds. They are not resident here all year.  They arrive in Britain in the spring to breed.

Cornwall Council has produced guidance for:

  • developers

  • builders

  • surveyors

  • architects and

  • householders.

Accommodating swallows, swifts and house martinsUseful advice and information can be found at:

Need help?

Most issues can be resolved online, it's the quickest and most convenient way to get help.

Use our contact us form