Listed buildings

Listing marks and celebrates a building's special architectural and historic interest, and also brings it under the consideration of the planning system, so that it can be protected for future generations.

Historic England is responsible for maintaining UK listings, and offers guidance on why buildings and sites are listed, and how the process works, as well as what this means for their owners. If you're unsure if your property is listed, you can consult their records.

Development and listed building consent

Listing applies to the principal building and some other buildings and structures within its curtilage (read more about curtilage). If you wish to demolish, alter or extend a listed building in a way that affects its character, you will need to apply to us for listed building consent. Find more detailed guidance, including a video which answers most common questions about work that needs listed building consent, on the Historic England website.

Warning It is a criminal offence to do unauthorised works to a listed building, even if you did not know it was listed. You may receive a heavy fine, or even a prison sentence, and have to pay to have the development removed or reversed.

If you are considering buying a listed building, it is essential to get a full history of work done on the property, and evidence of the appropriate consents. If you become the owner, you will become legally liable for any work which has been done without the proper authorisation. 

If you need listed building guidance

We can offer you, or your planning agent, expert advice on a wide variety of heritage issues (including pre-application guidance), as part of our planning advice service.

To check which service is most appropriate for you, call us on 01225 394041 during normal office hours on Tuesday or Thursday, or email us at conservation_andplanning@bathnes.gov.uk.

You may also find the following local specialist guidance helpful:

• The climate emergency and the historic environment
• Gull and pigeon control and protection for historic buildings and conservation areas
• Historic vaults in Bath
• Listed buildings, conservation areas and Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs)
• Paint colours and finishes for historic and traditional shopfronts 

For detailed national guidance on listed buildings and related heritage issues, go to the Historic England website

Warning You must consult the guidance on the Historic England site. The national guidance for listed buildings and heritage assets is a vital part of your planning application.

Get listed building consent 

There is detailed guidance on listed buildings and how to apply for authorisation for development at the Planning Portal.

It is important to note that listed building consent and planning permission are not the same thing. Listed building consent is concerned only with the effects of development on the listed building or site and its setting. For a planning application, the areas which are considered are wider than just the impact on heritage. For many developments, you may need both listed building consent and planning permission.

If your application is refused

If your application to work on a listed building is refused, you can appeal against the decision. Contact the Planning Inspectorate.