Frequently Asked Questions

• BUILDING WARRANT

A building warrant is the legal permission to commence building work, convert or demolish a building. On the 1st of May 2007 a new building standards technical handbooks will come into operation in Scotland. All building warrant applications from this date will be processed under the Building (Scotland) Act 2004, information on which is set out on these pages.The Scottish Building Standards Agency (SBSA) is an executive agency of the Scottish Executive to undertake the national functions related to the building standards system.This section is intended to help anyone who is unfamiliar with the building standards system in Scotland.This guidance deals only with the building standards system and you should be aware that other statutory requirements may also apply to the work proposed, such as planning permission, fire certificates or licensing. Planning permission is a separate matter and further guidance may be obtained from your local authority or from the Scottish Executive planning website.Some building proposals are exempt howver you should consult your local authority for confirmation.

Follow this link to the SBSA. Building Regulations - Your Questions Answered.

• PLANNING

Many types of new development need planning permission from the local council before building work can be carried out or the use of a property changed. In these cases, a planning application must be made to the local council describing what the new development will involve and where it will take place. The Scottish planning system can be complicated with each application vetted on individual merit in accordance with local authority strategy plans. Most local authorities have local planning guidance aimed to assist applicants to develop submission proposals, you are advised to be familar with this guidance during your design development process. This information can often be obtained online from your local authorities website. To find your local authority online click here Local Authorities . Helpful information can also be found at Planning aid scotland.