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?
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?
From the 1 March 2012, most types of planning advice relating to planning applications will attract a charge. Download the charging schedule for more information.
In order to make an appointment, send your details by email to planningapplications@wandsworth.gov.uk. Provide as much information as possible in order that we can invoice you for the correct amount. Alternatively you can send the information direct to the Town Hall along with your payment and we will then arrange an appointment directly with you. Please mark any correspondence clearly that you are seeking planning pre-application advice.
If you require information or assistance on a planning application that we have written to you about, then this service is free. Details of assistance are in the consultation letter including how to view the plans online or viewing paper copies at the 5th floor reception at the Town Hall extension in Wandsworth town.
If you have any enquiries about obtaining planning advice before an application is submitted, telephone 020 8871 6636.
The advice given will be accurate and objective but will be without prejudice to the formal consideration of an application by the council. We will give you information about relevant planning policies and previous decisions and, where appropriate, our standards for such matters as parking provision, amenity space etc. We will also advise you about the likely time scale for dealing with a planning application and the procedures to follow.
