Apply for planning permission FAQs
Click a question to reveal the answer.
Q: When do I need planning permission for something?
Q: Why do I need to apply for planning permission and building control consent separately?
Q: What are permitted development rights?
Some types of minor building work - such as a boundary wall below a certain height or a single storey rear extension- do not need planning permission. This is because central government consider that the effect of these developments on neighbours or the environment is likely to be small, and the government has issued a general planning permission to authorise them. This is known as 'permitted development'. The links below to the Planning Portal, a government web site, explain permitted development rights in more detail.
Q: What scale should I use for my plans/drawings?
Q: What sort of electronic formats do you accept?
Q: Can I submit electronic files of any size?
Q: Can I submit my application to you using the Planning Portal website?
Q: How can I avoid unnecessary delays in processing my application?
Q: After I submit my application, how long before I can expect to hear from you?
Q: How can I find out how my application is progressing?
Q: Will a planner contact me to discuss the proposal?
Q: Will someone need to visit the site?
Q: What are the key dates in progressing my application?
Q: Who do you consult about my application?
Q: Will I be able to amend the planning application?
Q: Who is responsible for making a decision on my application?
Q: How is a planning application determined?
Q: When can I expect to get a decision on my planning application?
Q: How does the planning applications committee work?
Q: Should I lobby Councillors?
Q: What happens if the application looks likely to be refused?
Q: If I am not happy with the decision what can I do?
Q: What policies do planners use to assess applications?
Q: I need to submit a 'Design and access statement', what is it?
Q: Can I discuss my application with you before I submit it?
