Custom/Self-build

Self-build and custom housebuilding covers a wide spectrum, from projects where individuals are involved in building or managing the construction of their home from beginning to end, to projects where individuals commission their home, making key design and layout decisions, but the home is built ready for occupation ('turnkey').

TheSelf-build and Custom Housebuilding Act 2015 (as amended by the Housing and Planning Act 2016) (opens new window) provides a legal definition of self-build and custom housebuilding. The Act does not distinguish between self-build and custom housebuilding and provides that both are where an individual, an association of individuals, or persons working with or for individuals or associations of individuals, build or complete houses to be occupied as homes by those individuals.

In considering whether a home is a self-build or custom build home, relevant authorities (including the Local Planning Authority when determining planning applications) must be satisfied that the initial owner of the home will have primary input into its final design and layout.

Off-plan housing, homes purchased at the plan stage prior to construction and without input into the design and layout from the buyer, are not considered to meet the definition of self-build and custom housing.

Please note the Custom and Self Build Register application process has recently changed. If you were previously on the register you will need to reapply using the link below.

The application fee is £50 and registration is valid for 12 months only. You will need to renew your application after 12 months to stay on the register.
The application fee is non-refundable. 

Apply to be on the Custom and Self-Build Register

If you have a question about the register please contact our Strategic Housing Team

If you are planning to build a self-build home property or require further information including how to apply for planning permission guidance is available onthe Planning Portal. (opens new window) andGOV.UK

We do offer pre-application advice,information is available on our website.

If you have a question about planning policy for Custom/Self Build housing,please contact us via our online form.

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) Self and Custom Build Exceptions

With regards to Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), further information can be found on ourBiodiversity Net Gain page.  In addition, if you wish to make an application for self and custom build exceptions, then the exemption only applies when it meets all the following conditions:   

• consists of no more than 9 dwellings 
• on a site that has an area no larger than 0.5 hectares    
• consists exclusively of dwellings that are self-build or custom housebuilding as defined insection 1(A1) of the Self-build and Custom Housebuilding Act 2015 (opens new window)

Also, please note the following in relation to Self-Build Planning Applications:

• The Council will only accept an exemption for self and custom build, where this forms part of the description of development.
• In order to be considered as Self-Build the owner of the home must have had primary input into the design and layout of the dwelling.  You will be asked to demonstrate this through your submission for Planning Permission and this should include (but not limited to) a written statement setting out how the self-builder has had input into the design and layout of the home, where and what parts of the process, inspiration and how this has been executed/evolved, details of meetings, details of sufficient funds to build (i.e. self-build mortgage agreement) and a design and engagement brief setting out how the relevant parties will work together to deliver the project. 
• The person promoting the plot must be included on the Authority's Self Build Register at the time of applying for planning permission.