Plan approval requirements for new builds and fire safety order buildings

From:: Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
Published: 2 April 2026

Applies to England

Summary

We are seeking views on amendments to submission and approval of plans in building control applications for new dwellings and buildings to which the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 applies.

This consultation closes at
11:59pm on 11 June 2026

Consultation description

The proposals relate to the introduction of stronger building control procedural requirements for new homes and in some instances work to existing dwellings where the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (Fire Safety Order or FSO) applies below 18 metres.

We also intend for these changes to address some of the current differences between the public and private sector building control routes.

The proposals are specifically focused on:

requiring that all new dwellings using the local authority (LA) route must apply with an application for building control approval with full plans
requiring that all new dwellings and all FSO buildings using the Registered Building Control Approver route must receive a plans certificate at some stage prior to the giving of the final certificate
a review of Fire and Rescue Authority consultation requirements

The consultation invites evidence and views on these proposals, with detailed reasoning.

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