Bristol City Council
Bristol City Council's Planning and Building Control department offers a range of services to assist with building and planning needs. You can submit applications for building control approval, including full plans and building notices, book site inspections, and report dangerous structures. The department is available Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 18:00, and Saturdays from 09:00 to 13:00. Common reasons for calling include submitting a Declaration of Completion, requesting copies of planning documents, or applying for demolition approval. While wait times can vary, calling early in the day may reduce delays. Online submissions are also available for many services, which can expedite processes and reduce the need for phone calls.
Updated 15 Dec 2025
Expected outcomes
- Submit building control application
- Submit building notice
- Book site inspection
- Submit Declaration of Completion
- Request planning documents
- Report dangerous structures
- Apply for demolition approval
Call preparation
Assemble everything before you dial. These requirements are verified by our call analysts and updated as organizations change their scripts.
- Completed application form
- Drawings
- Structural calculations
- Correct charge/fee
- Application reference
- Document reference
- Location details
- Demolition notice
- Declaration of Completion PDF
Known issues
Callers to Bristol City Council's Planning and Building Control department may experience long wait times, especially during peak hours. To avoid delays, it is recommended to call early in the day or use online forms when possible. Additionally, scheduling site inspections can sometimes be delayed, particularly during busy periods. To mitigate this, book inspections as early as possible and confirm appointments by phone or email. Utilizing online resources and planning ahead can help streamline interactions and reduce the need for follow-up calls.
