FRENCH PLANS
FRENCH PLANNING AND ARCHITECTURAL SERVICE
At French Plans we are fully qualified English speaking architects and planning consultants.
We offer full design and planning services for any size of project, anywhere in France.
If you're considering a building or renovation project in France follow the links below to find out more about what it might entail, see some examples of our work, and find out how we can help.
Navigate French planning regulations with clarity and confidence
Buying or renovating property in France is an exciting step but French planning law can feel complex, unfamiliar, and intimidating, especially if you are not used to the system.
Our carefully chosen partner French Plans specialise in helping property owners, buyers and developers navigate French planning regulations with clarity and confidence. Whether you are converting a barn, extending a home, opening a gîte, creating a campsite, or simply want to know what is and isn’t possible, they provide expert guidance from the very first question through to full approval.
Established in 2002, they have over 30 years of combined experience working within the French planning system, nationally and locally, and work every day with mairies, planning officers, architects, heritage authorities and technical bodies across France.
Why Planning in France Feels So Different
France does not operate a “permitted development” system like the UK or other countries.
Almost every external change to a building or change of land use requires authorisation and the rules can vary significantly from one commune to the next.
Key challenges people face include:
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Not knowing whether a project is even possible
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Buying property before checking zoning or restrictions
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Confusion between different types of planning permission
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Heritage, agricultural or environmental constraints
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Unexpected ERP (public building) requirements
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Drainage, thermal or technical rules blocking approval
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Delays caused by incomplete or incorrect applications
French Plans role is to remove uncertainty and replace it with clear, professional advice before mistakes become expensive.
what could french plans do for you?
They offer end-to-end planning and architectural support for people buying, renovating or developing property in France, as well as targeted advice for those who simply need clarity before committing.
From early feasibility checks covering zoning, change of use, extensions, conversions and tourism projects, through to the preparation and submission of all French planning applications, everything is handled to the standards local authorities expect.
Where architectural input is required, they coordinate with French-registered architects and manage the full technical process, including heritage approvals, ERP requirements, environmental compliance and specialist reports. They have particular expertise in gîtes, B&Bs, hospitality, event venues, campsites and glamping projects, and regularly work with listed or protected properties, ensuring regulations are met while still creating practical, modern spaces.
The result is one coherent, professionally managed process that saves time, money and unnecessary stress.
