Policy & Guidance

Planning & Regulations

Expert guidance on navigating Camden's planning policies, conservation area rules, and building regulations for your Hampstead project.

Understanding Camden Council's planning requirements is essential for any renovation project in Hampstead. From Basement Impact Assessments to Conservation Area Consent, we demystify the regulatory landscape to help you achieve your vision while respecting the area's architectural heritage.

The Roadmap

The Planning Process

A typical timeline for a householder planning application in Camden.

Pre-Application

2-4 Weeks

Consult with architects and get initial advice from Camden Council.

1

Submission

1 Day

Submit full plans, Design & Access Statement, and fee.

2

Validation

1-2 Weeks

Council checks if the application is complete and valid.

3

Consultation

3 Weeks

Neighbors and statutory bodies are invited to comment.

4

Assessment

4-6 Weeks

Planning officer visits site and writes report.

5

Decision

Target: 8 Weeks

Permission granted (possibly with conditions) or refused.

6
Preparation

Application Checklist

Ensure your application is valid from day one. Missing documents are the most common cause of delays.

Readiness0%
  • Existing & Proposed Floor Plans (1:50 or 1:100)Required
  • Existing & Proposed Elevations (1:50 or 1:100)Required
  • Sections (if relevant, e.g., for basements)
  • Site Location Plan (1:1250) with red line boundaryRequired
  • Block Plan (1:500)Required
  • Design & Access StatementRequired
  • Heritage Statement (for Conservation Areas/Listed Buildings)Required
  • Basement Impact Assessment (for excavations)
  • Arboricultural Impact Assessment (if trees affected)
  • CIL (Community Infrastructure Levy) FormRequired

Frequently Asked Questions

In almost all cases in Camden, yes. You will need to submit a full planning application accompanied by a Basement Impact Assessment (BIA). Camden has very strict policies (CPG4) regarding basement excavation to protect structural stability and hydrology.

An Article 4 Direction removes permitted development rights. In Hampstead Conservation Areas, this often means you need planning permission for minor changes like replacing windows, painting brickwork, or altering front gates, which would normally be allowed without it.

Standard planning permission usually lasts for 3 years. You must begin the work within this timeframe, or the permission will expire and you will need to re-apply.

In a Conservation Area, replacements must usually match the original materials and design exactly. Slim-profile double glazing in timber frames is often accepted, but uPVC is almost universally rejected. Listed buildings have even stricter rules.

Camden Council can issue an Enforcement Notice requiring you to demolish the work and restore the property to its original state. It is a criminal offence to disobey an enforcement notice or to alter a Listed Building without consent.

Need Professional Help?

Browse our directory of architects and planning consultants who specialize in Camden conservation areas.

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