How to Apply for Planning Permission in the UK

A step-by-step guide to submitting a planning application in England, from preparing your documents to receiving a decision.

Applying for planning permission can feel daunting, but the process is straightforward once you understand the steps. In England, most applications are submitted online through the Planning Portal.

Step 1: Check Whether You Need Permission

Before you apply, confirm that your project actually requires planning permission. Many smaller projects fall under permitted development rights. If you are unsure, contact your local planning authority for pre-application advice.

Step 2: Get Pre-Application Advice (Optional but Recommended)

Most councils offer a pre-application advice service. For a fee (typically £50-£600 depending on the project), a planning officer will review your proposals and give you informal feedback. This can save you time and money by flagging potential issues before you submit a formal application.

Step 3: Prepare Your Documents

A standard householder planning application requires:

• Application form - completed online via the Planning Portal
• Site location plan - at 1:1250 or 1:2500 scale showing the property outlined in red
• Block plan - at 1:200 or 1:500 scale showing the proposed development in relation to boundaries
• Existing and proposed floor plans and elevations - drawn to scale by an architect or architectural technologist
• Design and access statement - explaining your design choices (required for some applications)

Depending on your project, you may also need supporting documents such as a flood risk assessment, tree survey, ecological report, or heritage impact assessment.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Submit your application online through the Planning Portal or directly through your local council's website. You will need to pay the application fee at this stage.

Step 5: Validation and Consultation

Once submitted, the council will check your application is complete (validation). They will then:

• Notify your neighbours by letter or site notice
• Consult relevant bodies (highways, environment agency, parish council, etc.)
• Publish the application on their website for public comment

There is usually a 21-day consultation period during which anyone can submit comments.

Step 6: Assessment and Decision

A planning officer will assess your application against the council's local plan policies, national planning guidance, and any comments received. The target decision time is 8 weeks for householder applications and 13 weeks for major developments.

The outcome will be one of:

• Approved - you can proceed (check any conditions attached)
• Approved with conditions - you can proceed but must comply with specific requirements
• Refused - you can amend and resubmit, or appeal to the Planning Inspectorate

After Approval

Planning permission typically lasts 3 years from the date of approval. You must start work within this period or the permission expires. Remember that planning permission is separate from building regulations approval - you will usually need both before starting construction.