Housing in the countryside
- The Local Development Plan's housing in the countryside policy supports well-designed new houses in the countryside in particular circumstances, where they don't have an unacceptable impact.
- Design quality is closely scrutinised. Generic proposals are challenged.
- Flood risk. Parts of Perthshire near the Tay and its tributaries are at risk, and NPF4 Policy 22 applies. Check SEPA's flood maps before committing to a site.
- Ecology. Sites near rivers, woodland or upland areas may need surveys, and NatureScot may be consulted.
Before: site photograph
Proposed: design visualThe Cairngorms National Park
Know which plan applies
Parts of Perth & Kinross lie within the Cairngorms National Park, where the National Park's Local Development Plan applies and the Park Authority can call in applications. Confirm the position before you buy or apply.
Timescales
| Application | Statutory target | Indicative in 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-application advice | None | 4–8 weeks |
| Planning Permission in Principle | 2 months | 2–4 months |
| Full planning application | 2 months | 2–4 months |
| Approval of matters specified in conditions | 2 months | 6–10 weeks |
| Discharging conditions | Varies | 4–8 weeks per condition |
Continue reading
Sources: Scottish Government: National Planning Framework 4. Last reviewed October 2026.
Questions
Is it hard to get planning for a rural house in Perthshire?
It depends on the site. Perth & Kinross supports well-designed houses in the countryside in particular circumstances, but design quality, flood risk and ecology are closely examined.
General guidance for Scotland, not legal, tax, financial or planning advice for your project. Rules change, so check current official guidance and take advice specific to your site before acting.
