The planning application process

A step-by-step guide to what happens when you make a planning application.

  1. Find out if you need planning permission

    Use the Planning Portal website to make sure you're applying for everything you need.

    Find out if you need planning permission

  2. Duty Planner and pre-application advice

    You are welcome to discuss your proposals with us before submitting a planning application.

    Duty Planner and pre-application advice

  3. Find out what you need to include with your application

    Download the local information requirements list to find out what to include when you apply.

    Find out what you need to include with your application

  4. Calculate the planning fees you need to pay

    The fee calculator on the Planning Portal website will help you to do this.

    Calculate the planning fees you need to pay

  5. Apply for planning permission

    You can do this online or by post.

    Apply for planning permission

  6. Checking your application

    We'll review your application and write to you within two weeks.

    Checking your application

  7. The consultation and notification period

    We give the public the chance to tell us their thoughts about your proposal.

    The consultation and notification period

  8. The planning officer will visit and write a report

    The planning officer will visit the location to make sure the proposal is acceptable.

    The planning officer will visit and write a report

  9. We make our decision on your application

    We aim to make a decision within 8 weeks for minor applications and within 13 weeks for major applications.

    We make our decision on your application

  10. Appeal a planning decision

    You can appeal if you application is rejected, delayed decisions or due to planning conditions set. 

    Appeal a planning decision