Listed building consent

You need to apply for listed building consent to demolish, alter or extend a listed building in a way that would affect its character as a building of architectural or historic interest. This can include for internal changes - such as to fireplaces or doors, and external changes - such as the colour of exterior paintwork or the replacement of windows.

General maintenance doesn't need listed building consent, but you may need consent from us if repairs include:

  • the removal of certain features
  • changes to the character of the building

If you're not sure whether you need listed building consent, please contact us for advice.

If the works you plan to undertake are beyond permitted limits, you'll need to apply for planning permission as well as listed building consent.

Before you apply

Before you apply for listed building consent, you may want to use our pre-application service for advice about getting consent to alter a listed building.

How to apply

If the works you plan to undertake to a listed building don't go beyond permitted limits, you'll only need to submit an application for listed building consent.

If the works you plan to undertake go beyond permitted limits, you'll need to submit a combined planning permission and listed building consent application.

You can apply for listed building consent on the Planning Portal website, or download the relevant planning application forms.

Making changes without consent

Carrying out work to a listed building without consent is a criminal offence, which can result in a fine and/or a prison sentence. You may also need to put the building back to the way it was before the work was carried out.