A "permissive approach" refers to allowing something to happen or giving permission for a specific behavior or action. It means being lenient or relaxed rather than strict or restrictive. Full definition
For example, a food manufacturer wishing to make health claims about features of its products will continue to be subject to EU laws where it is selling its wares in the EU, even if (as has been argued) equivalent UK legislation takes a more permissive approach in future. (lawyer-monthly.com)
couples who practice permissive approaches to sex either have or do not have the guilt feelings that the minister might have under similar circumstances. (religion-online.org)
«Theirs is a very permissive approach on how this money can be used,» said Alex Camarda, director of public policy and advocacy at Citizens Union. (nypost.com)