New Build Planning Permission

Bit of a random question this one but im sure someone on here may be able to help. I am currently looking into the idea of designing and building my own house. Now I am a complete novice with this type of thing and I am trying to get a little bit of info on what rules and regulations there are for new build planning. I can only imagine how much many avenues I am going to have to go down, but any helpful hints or information would be greatly appreciated. Plus it will get the other half off my back!