Certain types of development could be exempt from planning permission under proposals put forward by the Scottish Government.

The change is one of 20 included in a consultation that will pave the way for a Bill intended to revamp and modernise the planning system later this year.

The consultation proposes removing the need to apply for planning permission from a wider range of developments in order to "simplify, streamline and clarify" the system.

Developments that could be exempted include digital telecommunications infrastructure, renewable heat installations, cycle networks, polytunnels, allotments and changes to the use of town centre premises.

The government wants to increase planning fees and introduce charging for appeals and reviews of decisions.

Ministers also believe more review decisions should be made by councils rather than centrally and propose expanding the range of applications that are subject to local review.

Other proposals are designed to zone more land for housing, promote self-build homes and give communities more of a say in local planning.

The consultation builds on the recommendations of an independent review carried out by a panel of experts last year and runs until April 4.

Planning minister Kevin Stewart said: "I believe these proposals will mean we are better-placed to make high-quality development happen sooner and in the right places.

"I firmly believe that Scotland's planners can lead the delivery of great places, empower communities and provide a stable environment for investment through the uncertain times we live in.

"I would encourage everyone with an interest in planning - developers and businesses, professionals and local authorities, communities and members of the public - to tell us what they think of our proposals for change."

Stefano Smith, convener of the Royal Town Planning Institute Scotland (RTPI Scotland), said the consultation "recognises the huge potential of good planning to help Scotland face the daunting challenges of today, such as the housing crisis and climate change".

He added: "RTPI Scotland agrees that removing the need to obtain permission for certain types of small development and careful exploration of zoning for high quality and sustainable housing development could free up resources.

"This would give planners more time to invest in delivering the high-quality sustainable places that Scotland needs."

Clare Symonds, chair of Planning Democracy, said: "The consultation's commitment to improving people's trust and involvement in the system are welcome.

"People across Scotland made their voice clear in last year's consultation on planning - developers have more power than communities and that has to change.

"We believe it's time ministers supported an equal right of appeal like that enjoyed by people in Ireland."