01363 818 230info@aspireplanningsolutions.co.uk

Independent town planning consultancy - based in Devon but cover the whole of England.

Aspire Planning Solutions

Ready to start your project?

Join the many satisfied clients who trust Aspire Planning Solutions to manage their planning and development needs.

Call Neil 01363 818230

info@aspireplanningsolutions.co.uk

Assisting with applications for lawful certificates, ensuring your project continues as planned

Lawful Development Certificates

Certainty and protection for your property or development

A Lawful Development Certificate (LDC) is a formal legal decision issued by the local authority confirming that an existing or proposed use or development is lawful.

This provides clarity and peace of mind, ensuring that your project can proceed without the risk of planning enforcement action or future disputes.

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Planning Consultant Devon
Lawful Certificates Exeter

What Is a lawful development certificate?

Unlike a planning application, a lawful certificate is not assessed on planning policy or the merits of the proposal. Instead, it is determined based on evidence, facts and legal considerations.

A certificate confirms that:

Planning permission is not required, or

Development has become lawful over time, or

No enforcement action can be taken

This makes it a valuable legal document for property owners, developers and anyone looking to sell or finance a property.

Types of lawful certificates

Certificate of lawful existing use or development

Used to confirm that an existing use or development is lawful, typically where:

Works were carried out without permission but are now immune from enforcement

A use has continued for a required period (usually 10 years for change of use or breach of condition)

Lawful Certificates Exeter
Lawful Certificates Exeter

Certificate of lawful proposed use or development

Used to confirm that a proposed development is lawful before works begin.

This is often used where:

Development falls within permitted development rights

You want formal confirmation before proceeding

There is uncertainty around whether planning permission is required

Why apply for a lawful certificate?

A lawful certificate provides legal certainty and can prevent issues later in the process. It is particularly useful when:

You want written confirmation that planning permission is not required

There is ambiguity around the planning status of a property

You are selling or refinancing and need legal clarity

You want to avoid delays caused by last-minute planning queries

Without a certificate, these issues can cause delays or even prevent a sale, especially as local authorities can take several weeks to determine an application.

Lawful Certificates Exeter
Exeter Lawful Certificates

What is required for an application?

Applying for a lawful certificate is similar to a planning application and must meet validation requirements. Typically this includes:

Application forms

Site location plans

Existing and proposed drawings (floor plans, elevations, sections)

Supporting evidence such as statutory declarations, photographs or records

Relevant application fee

The strength of the evidence provided is critical, as decisions are based entirely on factual information rather than planning judgement.

How we can help

Aspire Planning Solutions provides full support with lawful certificate applications, including:

Assessing whether a certificate is appropriate

Advising on the type of application required

Preparing drawings and supporting documentation

Coordinating and presenting evidence clearly

Managing submission and communication with the local authority

Our experience ensures your application is robust, well-evidenced and positioned for a successful outcome.

Exeter Lawful Certificates

Ready to start your project?

Join the many satisfied clients who trust Aspire Planning Solutions to manage their planning and development needs.

Call Neil 01363 818230

info@aspireplanningsolutions.co.uk