Do I need planning permission?
If you are unsure of whether you need planning permission, the best thing you can do is speak to a planner for the area. The officers will be able to give you advice and guidance on how you need to proceed. Generally speaking, new buildings, major alterations or enlargement of existing buildings and changes in use of buildings and land are development, and will normally need planning permission. You do not always need planning permission.
It is not required, generally speaking, for changes to the inside of buildings, or for small alterations to the outside such as the installation of telephone connections and alarm boxes. Other small changes, for example putting up walls and fences below a certain height, have a general planning permission called Permitted Development for which a specific application is not required. If in doubt, you are advised to contact a member of the Development Control team for the area of Manchester.