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?
You can approach your ward councillor to discuss planning issues or to explain your point of view, whether or not the councillor is a planning applications committee member. They may be able to offer you advice and assistance but normally will refer technical or policy queries to the appropriate officers. Councillors will often be lobbied about planning applications by neighbours and on occasion by developers.
A member of the planning applications committee has to be careful not to appear to "pre-determine" any application. They are likely to acknowledge any concerns expressed or points made in support of an application, but will only be able to make a final decision at the committee meeting after considering all relevant matters.
At Wandsworth, neither applicants nor objectors can speak at the planning applications committee. However, councillors not members of the committee but who represent the ward where an application is located can attend the meeting and speak briefly on the item.
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?
