Construction works may need planning permission before they begin. The is the granting of permission to proceed with a proposed development. Responsibility for granting permission generally lies with local planning authorities (usually the planning department of the district or borough council). All developments require planning permission, other than ‘permitted developments’, which are considered to have insignificant impact.

Planning conditions or planning obligations can be imposed on planning permissions, and these may need to be discharged before construction works begin. If an outline permission is granted, then reserve matters approvals may be required.