A conditional approval requires certain things to be carried out in order for the development to be lawful. A standard time limit is often added, which usually gives 3 years to start the development. In addition to this, conditions may be added to control the type of materials to be used, to control the use of a building, or to control the occupancy of a building.

It is important to note that when making a full application, it is a detailed application. In order to avoid multiple conditions being applied, full details of all materials, detailing and relevant information should be submitted at the time the application is made.

Conditions can be added for many things, however the condition must be reasonable and it must be enforceable. Central government sets out how conditions may be applied, in the circular: 11/95, which is available from the communities website

As of April 6th 2008, there will be a charge levied for the discharge of planning conditions. The introduction of the fee is being rolled out on a national level.

Householder (domestic) per discharge: £25

Any other condition per discharge: £85

Please note that all conditions can be discharged at once - resulting in a single fee. Alternatively they can be discharged individually, with the fee being applied each time.