How Long Does Planning Permission Take?

In most cases, planning permission takes around 8 weeks from the date your application is validated by the local authority. For larger or more complex projects, such as multiple dwellings or commercial developments, the process may take up to 13 weeks. If an Environmental Impact Assessment is required, the timescale could stretch even further to 16 weeks or more.

These timeframes are official government guidelines but they are not guaranteed deadlines. Delays are common, particularly when paperwork is incomplete or if public objections raise planning concerns.

Why It Might Take Longer Than You Think

While eight weeks is the target, several factors can slow things down:

• Missing documents or incorrect plans

• High volume of applications in your area

• Public objections or consultation delays

• Planning committee meetings being rescheduled

• Heritage, environmental or highway concerns

• Awaiting feedback from statutory consultees like the Environment Agency or highways departments

Even something as simple as your application being submitted just before a bank holiday can cause delays. The process also pauses if the council has to wait for you to respond to questions or submit updated documents.

Planning Permission – After You Apply

Once you’ve submitted your application, the following steps begin:

1. Validation – The council checks your application is complete and has the correct fee.

2. Consultation – Neighbours and relevant organisations are notified.

3. Site visit – A planning officer inspects the property and reviews the plans.

4. Review – The officer considers the application against planning policy.

5. Decision – You’ll receive a written decision notice, either approved, approved with conditions or refused.

If your application is straightforward, it may be handled by a planning officer under “delegated powers”. If it’s more controversial or complex, it may go to a planning committee, which only meets every few weeks—adding to the wait.

Can Planning Permission Be Granted Quicker?

In some cases, yes. If your application is well-prepared, complete and meets all local planning policies, it might go through without a hitch. Using a professional—such as an architect or planning consultant—can also help speed things up by getting it right the first time.

Some councils offer fast-track services for householder applications or minor works for an additional fee. These services aim to validate and determine applications faster than standard timelines, though not all authorities provide this option.

What Happens If Planning Permission Takes Longer Than Eight Weeks?

If your council fails to make a decision within eight weeks, and you haven’t agreed to an extension, you have the right to appeal for non-determination through the Planning Inspectorate. However, this can take several months and may not always be worth the hassle, particularly if you believe your application is likely to be approved soon.

Often, planning officers will contact you before the deadline to request an extension, especially if more information is needed. You can agree, but it's not mandatory.

What Are the Stages of Planning Permission?

Here’s a breakdown of the typical stages:

1. Pre-application advice (optional)

2. Submission of application

3. Validation by the council

4. Neighbour and statutory consultation

5. Site visit by planning officer

6. Assessment against planning policy

7. Planning officer recommendation

8. Decision made (either delegated or by committee)

9. Decision notice issued

Each stage has its own timescales, but most of the delay tends to happen during consultation and assessment.

Why Does Planning Permission Take So Long?

Planning permission takes time because it balances a lot of different interests—yours, your neighbours', and the wider community’s. Councils must follow strict rules and policies and often deal with dozens or even hundreds of applications at once. Add to that the need to consult highways, heritage, environmental agencies and the public, and things quickly become complex.

Other reasons include:

• Understaffed planning departments

• Changes in local planning policy during the process

• High levels of public objections

• Poor-quality submissions needing resubmission or clarification

While frustrating, the system is designed to ensure developments are fair, legal and appropriate for their environment.

Does the Clock Start When I Submit My Application?

Not quite. The eight-week (or thirteen-week) clock only starts once your application is “validated” by the local authority. That means they’ve checked it’s complete, paid for and includes all the necessary documents. If your application is missing key details, they’ll contact you for more information and the clock won’t start until everything is in order.

What If I Need to Make Changes During the Process?

If you need to amend your application after it’s been submitted, it can restart the consultation period, especially if the changes are significant. This can push your timeline beyond the original eight-week window. Even minor tweaks might cause delays, as they often require internal re-approval or neighbour re-notification.

How Can I Track My Planning Application?

Most councils allow you to track the status of your application online, either through the council website or via the Planning Portal if submitted there. You'll usually be able to:

• See when your application was validated

• Check which stage it’s currently at

• View public comments or objections

• See the officer’s recommendation once submitted

This helps keep you in the loop without having to chase the planning department every few days.

Will I Be Told Why There's a Delay?

Sometimes, yes—but not always. Planning departments are understaffed and overwhelmed in many areas, so communication can be inconsistent. If you’re concerned about a delay, it’s perfectly acceptable to contact the case officer or planning department for an update. Just be polite and patient—they’re far more likely to help if they don’t feel under pressure.

Do Certain Types of Projects Take Longer?

Yes—certain projects are more likely to face extended timelines, especially if they involve:

• Listed buildings or conservation areas (requires specialist input)

• Change of use applications (requires consultation with highways or environmental services)

• Major developments or multiple dwellings

• Retrospective planning permission (after work has already been done)

• Flood zones or green belt land (more scrutiny and red tape)

If your project falls into one of these categories, it’s worth anticipating delays from the start.

What If My Application Is Rejected—Will That Delay Things Further?

If your application is refused, you can either appeal, revise and resubmit, or leave it altogether. An appeal can take several months, depending on the Planning Inspectorate’s caseload. Resubmitting a revised version can be quicker—many councils don’t charge a second fee if the new application is made within 12 months of the original refusal.