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Planning and Building Control

Fossil fuel heating system ban

From 1 January 2024 plans for new buildings seeking Building Control authority approval will need to feature greener, low carbon heating systems.

Please be advised that, due to recent legislative changes, Building Control authorities will reject new applications for a new building, submitted after 1 January 2024, that include the installation of a fossil fuel heating system.

These changes apply to new builds and the term ‘new building’ includes extensions. You will be affected by these changes if you plan to install a fossil fuel boiler, oil tank or gas supply in a new extension. You can proceed to connect an extension to a fossil fuel heating system in the existing part of the building by the installation of new pipework and radiators.

Building Control are providing a free second amendment to allow you to change your plans to a low carbon heating system, including any amendments to radiators or pipework that may be required.

A ban on installing fossil fuel systems in new buildings follows in 2025, therefore if you already have Building Regulation approval it must be installed prior to 1 January 2025.

A guide to the Fossil fuel heating system ban is available on the NetZero website

Planning


Planning approval is required in order to legally carry out 'development'. Development can be physical building works or a change in the use of land or a building.

Building Control


The Building Control function regulates the construction processes involved in the erection of a building, highlighting the elements of how a building is put together and in particular ensuring that the building has a safe structure.

Built Environment Reform Programme

The Built Environment Reform Programme is a two year programme of work set out to develop commitments in the Island Plan to build great communities.

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