Prior Notification and Prior Approval

What it is: A simpler process where the developer notifies the local planning authority (LPA) of their intention to carry out certain types of permitted development.
Purpose: To let the LPA know you’re planning to build something that falls under permitted development.
Outcome: If the LPA does not respond within the set time limit (usually 28 days), development can proceed.
Used for: Things like agricultural developments or telecommunications infrastructure (e.g., installing a new mast).

What it is: A more detailed process than prior notification, where the LPA must formally assess specific impacts of the proposed development before it can go ahead.
Purpose: To give the LPA a chance to consider particular issues (e.g. transport, noise, flooding, design) before allowing the development.
Outcome: Development cannot proceed until prior approval is granted, or a set period (often 56 days) has passed without a decision.
Used for: Larger or more complex PD rights like:
- Change of use (e.g., office to residential)
- Larger home extensions
- Conversion of agricultural buildings to dwellings

The fees for prior notification and prior approval applications are generally standardized across Scotland.

Standard Fee: £200 Aberdeenshire Council+1eplanning.scot+1 This applies to most prior notification and prior approval applications.
Specific Cases with Different Fees:
- Agricultural and Forestry Developments:
  - Certain applications related to agricultural and forestry buildings and operations may have different fees. For example:
    - Applications under Class 18B and 18C of Part 6 (agricultural buildings and operations): £600.
    - Applications under Class 22A and 22B of Part 7 (forestry buildings and operations): £600.
- Telecommunications Equipment:
  - Applications made by electronic communications code operators under Class 67 of Part 20: £750.

For a comprehensive list of fees associated with specific classes of development, you can refer to the