Email service disruption
The issues affecting email messages sent to Cumberland Council have now been resolved, and we are receiving emails as normal.
Apply for planning permission
Before you submit a planning application, always start by checking whether you need planning permission for your work.
Planning permission is generally required for work that is classed as development, and includes:
- new buildings
- alterations to existing buildings
- changes to the use of buildings or land
Householder development
Some alterations to your home may not require planning permission and could be carried out as a permitted development, if they satisfy certain limits and conditions.
These may include:
- extensions
- dormers/roof alterations
- outbuildings
- hard surfaces/decking.
Commercial development
Most alterations to business premises do need planning permission, including:
- most shop and office extensions
- alterations to shop fronts
- external security shutters or grilles.
Advertising and signs
Consent to display an advert (or adverts) is required for certain types of advertisements.
You can only apply to us for planning permission if the property is outside the Lake District National Park boundary. If it is inside, you will need to apply to the Lake District National Park Authority.
Guide to the fees for planning applications in England.
Planning application fees will rise on 1 April 2026.
The Planning Team are currently operating at reduced capacity. This is affecting our ability to respond to planning activities within the normal timeframes, so there may be a delay in responding.
Select your local area for more information:
Find your local area
Why you're going to a different website
As a new council we are in the process of adding information to this website. To give you the information you need some pages will link back to the old council websites.