The Faculty process


Step 1 - Parish checks whether a faculty application will be necessary for the proposed works
Most work to a church building or churchyard requires the parish to submit a faculty application but there are other routes depending on the nature of the particular work being proposed.

Step 2 - Parish requests informal advice
This step is optional but parishes normally find it helpful to obtain informal advice from the DAC at an early stage. This helps you get the work on the right track before you spend time and money working up the detail. You should provide clear details of what you are proposing and why you are proposing it. This should include:

  • a clear explanation of why you're proposing the work
  • photographs of areas concerned (including wider context photos) and
  • outline sketches (if appropriate).

For major schemes you should also provide a Statement of Need in line with published guidance. It's normally helpful for you to engage your church architect at an early stage. The DAC may offer a site visit if they feel the proposals require on-site discussion.

Step 3 - Parish requests formal advice
You are required to submit your proposal. Your application must be accompanied by a full set of definitive supporting information including the outcome of any necessary consultations. The DAC reviews applications at its monthly meeting.

Step 4 - Parish receives DAC response to their application
The DAC aims to provide a written response to each application, normally within 12 working days of the relevant DAC meeting. The DAC may require additional information from the parish or a change in the proposed specification of the work - in this case the parish will receive an explanatory letter or email. If the DAC is able to make a definitive recommendation at the meeting, the DAC Office will send the relevant documentation to the parish, including public notices.

Step 5 - Parish displays public notices for 28 days
The parish must display the public notices in order to allow church members and other interested parties the opportunity to consider the proposals and to raise any objections with the Diocesan Registrar.

Step 6 - Parish submits papers to Diocesan Registrar
On completion of Step 5, the parish confirms in writing the display of the Notices to the Diocesan Registrar.

Step 7 - Final decision on faculty application
The Diocesan Chancellor (or, in certain circumstances, the Archdeacon) decides whether or not to issue a faculty, taking into account any representations from the public, statutory consultees or other interest groups. The Diocesan Registrar informs the parish accordingly. Additional procedures may be invoked if there are any significant objections to the proposals. Only on receipt of the issued faculty from the Registrar can the parish legally proceed with the works.

The Church of England Diocese of Manchester,
Church House, 
90 Deansgate, 
Manchester M3 2GH

Manchester DBF Company number 149999, Charity number 249424
Telephone: 0161 828 1400