1. Introduction

If you are buying property in France then it is a fair bet you are going to encounter the planning authorities.

Do not panic. Normally, it is not an unpleasant experience.

Those accustomed to detailed planning regulations found in the UK will rarely find the same experience in France.

Clearly, there are exceptions, notably in relation to protected areas and buildings but, if you are buying such a property, we suspect this is likely to be something you will welcome.

One notable area where detailed controls do not exist is in relation to building control and inspection. It would be unusual for you to receive a visit from an inspector, as the strict system of building control and inspection with which those from the UK are familiar does not exist in France.

Naturally, you have to build in accordance with the planning consent and building standards, but there is generally a greater freedom of action, and less detailed regulation and supervision.

In these pages we take you through the whole planning process, from making a planning application to completion of works. The applicable rules are those that apply with effect from 1st Oct 07.

We also provide some contextual pages on the wider planning system, which you may find useful, not only in relation to your own planning application, but also in learning about your commune or region.

We tell you how you can get free planning and architectural advice, and how you should go about appointing an architect. If you are proposing a major building project requiring planning consent, you are obliged to use one.

Once you have received planning permission there are still various notification procedures with which you will need to comply. They are not onerous, but you need to remember them.

Finally, we outline the planning taxes for which you may be liable. Whilst there is no planning application fee, there are later taxes to pay if you should receive consent.

This is France, after all!