Lawful Development Certificates (LDCs)
Lawful Development Certificates confirm whether existing or proposed development is lawful. We provide clear, evidence-led advice to secure LDC approval with confidence.
Speak to our team for clear advice on your situation.
Expert help from trusted planning consultants
Have you carried out works or changed the use of a property without planning permission, or are you proposing development and need confirmation that permission is not required?
At Fytche-Taylor Planning, we help property owners, developers and businesses secure Lawful Development Certificates (LDCs), providing certainty, protecting your investment and reducing the risk of future enforcement action.
What is a Lawful Development Certificate?
A Lawful Development Certificate (LDC) is a formal confirmation from your Local Planning Authority that an existing or proposed use, operation, or building works are lawful under planning law.
There are two main types of LDC:
Existing Use or Development (Section 191) – for activities or works already carried out. Once granted, the use or development is protected from enforcement action.
Proposed Use or Development (Section 192) – for new works or changes you plan to carry out, giving certainty that planning permission is not required.
Why it matters:
Obtaining an LDC provides legal certainty, safeguards property values, and reduces risk when selling, leasing, or developing land.
When Might You Need an LDC? Typical scenarios include:
A barn or property converted years ago without planning permission.
Change of use implemented long ago where formal confirmation is required.
Proposed extensions, works, or development where you want to verify permitted development rights.
Property transactions where buyers or lenders request proof of lawful use.
Why choose us?
At Fytche‑Taylor Planning we have decades of experience across Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire, Norfolk and throughout the East Midlands, including rural sites, barn conversions, commercial changes of use and more. We hold a strong approval record, handle all the technical research and evidence gathering, and act as your agent so you can focus on your next move.
Our approach / how it works
Initial review - we assess your site history, planning records, operations.
Evidence gathering - we compile the facts, photographs, statutory declarations, plan drawings, and legal analysis.
Submission of application - we prepare and submit the LDC application to the Local Planning Authority, liaise on your behalf.
Decision & certificate issued - once granted you receive the LDC and peace of mind.
(Optional) Further advice - we can help you sell, develop or remodel with the certificate in place.
Typical timescales / costs
Most LDCs can be determined within 8 weeks from submission, though timelines vary depending on the local authority and complexity.”) National guidance says for LDCs the decision period is often 8 weeks. Our own fees for vary by project, so please contact us for a quote.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ "Exemplary service - The service provided was excellent ...I would not hesitate to recommend Fytche-Taylor Planning."
Mr E Titley, Winder Taylor Smith Solicitors, Bolton
Frequently asked questions
Q: Do I have to get an LDC?
A: No — but it gives you a formal legal document, which can be very valuable especially when buying/selling land or defending past works.
Q: What if I don’t have 10 years’ evidence?
A: That may limit your ability to demonstrate immunity from enforcement; we’ll advise on all options.
Q: Will getting an LDC remove the need for Building Regulations / other consents?
A: No — an LDC deals only with planning law. You must still satisfy Building Regulations, listed building consent, etc. National guidance emphasises this.
Get in touch today for an initial review of your site and to discuss whether an LDC is appropriate for you.