ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a brief overview of key statutes, regulations and over-arching advice as well as United Kingdom and European Union standards that apply to the design and construction of houses. A planning application is submitted to the planning department of the appropriate local authority setting out details of the proposed development. In terms of a wholly new building, the application may be for outline permission or detailed permission. Any tree of significance that is 6 metres or more in height can have a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) placed on it by a local authority. The TPO may be in place to protect a single tree, trees in a group or even a woodland. The chapter reviews the over-arching principles of the Building Regulations as they presently apply in the England. Limited regulation of building construction in England and Wales began in the 12th century.
