Planning obligations and developer contributions

Planning obligations (also known as Section 106 agreements/obligations) are legal obligations related to planning permissions that require developers to undertake certain works or make financial contributions in order to mitigate the impacts of the development proposed. Planning obligations are most frequently used on residential developments where the new dwellings will lead to additional impacts on local infrastructure and require provision of affordable housing in line with local planning policies. Policy GSP8 of the Local Plan Part 2 (opens new window) sets out the types of infrastructure and facilities which may be secured through planning obligations. 

Where planning obligations are required, a Section 106 planning obligations statement including draft head(s) of terms should be submitted with the planning application. More information is available on our local validation checklist. 

Most residential developments will need to make a financial contribution towards habitat mitigation in order to meet the requirements of the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 (opens new window). More detail on these requirements can be found on the habitats regulations assessment guidance and forms page.

Norfolk County Council's planning obligations (opens new window) page details their likely requirements for planning obligations.

Each year, the Council invites bids and ideas from Parish Councils, sports groups and other community groups for spending this money, in line with priorities identified in the Open Space Supplementary Planning Document and the Playing pitch and outdoor sports strategy . The Council is currently inviting bids and project ideas from these groups between Monday 07 April and Monday 30 June 2025. More information can be found on the Spending of developer contributions on public open space page.