Planning permission for an agricultural building involves specific rules called Permitted Development Rights (PDRs), allowing farmers to build or extend buildings for farming without full permission, provided they meet criteria like size (e.g., under 12m high), location (not near trunk roads), and genuine agricultural use (e.g., storage, livestock). Full permission is usually needed for changes of use (like turning a barn into a house, under Class Q PDR) or if PDRs aren't met, requiring applications like a Prior Approval (DPA) for smaller details or full planning.

When You Might NOT Need Full Permission (Using PDRs)

• New Buildings/Extensions: For farm buildings (machinery, storage, livestock) on land over 5 hectares, with size/height limits and distance rules from classified roads.

• Conversions (Class Q): Turning existing farm buildings into homes (up to 10 dwellings, 1000sqm total) requires Prior Approval but avoids full planning for the structure itself.

• Change of Use (Class R): Converting barns to commercial uses (shops, offices, leisure) under specific conditions.

When You DO Need Full Permission

• Change of Use: If you're changing the use from farming to something unrelated (e.g., a new business not covered by PDRs).

• Building a House: Building a new dwelling on agricultural land.

• Exceeding Limits: If the building exceeds height or size limits, or is in a sensitive area (like a National Park).

• Specific Operations: For large excavations or developments on Article 2(3) land (protected landscapes). 

How to Apply for Approval

●       Prior Approval (DPA): For many PDRs (like Class Q), you apply for approval on details (location, design) through a simplified process with your local council.

●       Full Planning Permission: For cases outside PDRs, a standard application on the Planning Portal website, including plans, forms, fees, and potentially flood risk assessments, is required.

In essence, PDRs offer streamlined processes for farming-related developments, but strict rules apply, especially concerning scale, location, and purpose.

Agricultural Building Planning Drawings and Plans

If you wish to undertake your own planning application or have a building provider who will do the application for you, we can provide the necessary drawings and plans required for your application. Get in touch for a quote.

Case Study

Planning Approval for Agricultural Building at Stithians Showground

HL Rural were pleased to be able to assist Stithians Showground with gaining planning permission for an agricultural building to store agricultural equipment of their annual agricultural show. This allows them to free up space within another building on the property which can be used for pop up events and hire. This then generates an additional income stream for the show.

For further information and advice, please get in touch or book an initial free consultation.