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Canopies and retractable awnings and planning permission

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Canopies and retractable awnings and planning permission

Do I need planning permission?

You must apply for full planning permission to install a canopy or awning to your shop front.

Canopies or awnings with signage (a letter or words for advertising purposes) are treated as advertisements. Therefore advertisement consent may be required rather than planning permission. To help you understand whether you need to apply for advertisement consent, you should read:

If your property is a listed building (or part of), you must apply for listed building consent for this.

Where can I find further information?

See paragraphs 7.18 - 7.24 of Camden Planning Guidance 1 – Design. This sets out and explains the Council’s requirements for the design of awnings and canopies. 

Can I get confirmation that I do not require planning permission?

You can apply for a Lawful Development Certificate where you need to prove an existing or proposed awning is lawful. 

Am I likely to get planning permission?

To find out whether your proposal is likely to be accepted, you can apply for pre-planning application advice.

How do I apply?

You can apply via the national planning portal. To find out what information is required with your application, see making a planning application.

Still not sure whether you need planning permission?

If you need further advice about whether you need planning permission, contact planning advice and information.