Planning and building
Find out what permissions and approvals you need before carrying out work on land or buildings in Orkney, and explore our planning policies, marine planning framework, aquaculture and outdoor access network.
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Planning applications
Apply for permission, comment on proposals, and track progress
Building standards and warrants
Guidance on warrants, regulations, building safety, and compliance
Energy and regeneration
Information on energy projects, funding, regeneration, and strategy
Environment and heritage
Guidance on wildlife, heritage, conservation, and protected sites
Land development planning
Policies and guidance for development, land use, and planning
Marine planning
Guidance on managing seas, marine development, and sustainability
Outdoor access
Information on paths, access rights, walking, cycling, and riding
Aquaculture
Guidance on development, including planning requirements, policies, and applications
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Related news
19 February 2026
Orkney-led Marine Plan approved
Orkney Islands Council has developed a new marine plan designed to sustainably manage the seas around the islands whilst protecting the unique way of life and marine environment for future…
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29 January 2026
Ferry Road design proposals
The 'A Safer Route to School' project is sharing draft concept design proposals for Ferry Road and the Stromness waterfront at public events in February 2026.
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1 September 2025
Ferry Road’s ‘Safer Route to School Project’ moves to Collaborative Design Phase
Following a successful feasibility study completed earlier in 2025, the 'Safer Route to School' project for Ferry Road in Stromness is now entering its collaborative design phase. The project is…
