How to Apply for Planning Permission

Learn how to apply for planning permission in the UK with a step-by-step guide including paperwork tips reasons for rejection and how to boost your chance of success.

Applying for planning permission in the UK involves a clear sequence of steps, starting with the idea for your project and ending with either approval or a chance to appeal. Here's a basic overview:

  1. Confirm if permission is needed – Not all projects require it.

  2. Speak to your local council or use the Planning Portal – Check if your project falls under permitted development.

  3. Prepare your documents – This includes architectural plans, location maps and a design statement if required.

  4. Submit your application – Online via the Planning Portal or directly through your local authority.

  5. Pay the fee – The cost depends on the nature of the work.

  6. Wait for validation and consultation – Neighbours may be notified.

  7. Receive a decision – Usually within 8 weeks.

Should I Seek Advice Before Applying for Planning Permission?

Yes, absolutely. Getting advice early on can help you avoid unnecessary delays or rejections. Speaking to a planning officer or architect can highlight any obvious concerns or limitations before you submit your plans. This might include issues with property boundaries, overlooking neighbours or building too close to protected trees or areas.

Some councils offer pre-application advice services—which may come with a small fee—but the investment is worth it for peace of mind and improved chances of approval.

Where Would I Get the Best Advice?

You can get tailored advice from several sources:

  • Your local planning authority – The most accurate and up-to-date info.

  • The Planning Portal (planningportal.co.uk) – Offers official guidance, application tools and document requirements.

  • An architect or planning consultant – Ideal for more complex or ambitious projects.

  • Citizens Advice or local community groups – Can help with understanding your rights or appealing decisions.

It’s best to speak to someone with experience in your region, as local policies can differ even within the same county.

Gathering the Planning Application Paperwork You Need

A standard planning application will usually require the following:

  • Site location plan – Showing where the property sits within its surroundings.

  • Block plan – Showing the development in relation to boundaries and other buildings.

  • Elevations and floor plans – Before and after (proposed) drawings.

  • Design and access statement – For more complex or listed buildings.

  • Ownership certificates – To declare you own the land or have informed the owner.

  • Correct fee – Payment is needed before your application will be processed.

All documents must be accurate, labelled and uploaded clearly to avoid delays.

Tips for Planning Application Success

  1. Be realistic and respectful of your surroundings—keep designs in line with nearby homes.

  2. Communicate with your neighbours early—they’re more likely to support or stay neutral if they’re informed.

  3. Follow planning policy closely—review your council’s local development plan.

  4. Provide detailed drawings and explanations—this reduces back-and-forth with the planning officer.

  5. Use professional help if needed—especially for structural or design-heavy projects.

Planning is about more than just ticking boxes—it’s about showing how your project fits into the community.

How Planning Permission Applications Progress

Once you submit your application, your local council will:

  1. Validate the application – Making sure it’s complete and paid for.

  2. Publicly consult – Neighbours and other interested parties are notified.

  3. Assess the proposal – The planning officer visits the site and reviews the impact.

  4. Make a decision – Either approve, approve with conditions or refuse the application.

In most cases, a decision is made within eight weeks. For larger projects, this may extend to thirteen weeks.

Reasons Your Planning Application May Be Rejected

Planning permission can be refused for several reasons, including:

  • The design is out of character with the surrounding area

  • Loss of privacy or light for neighbouring properties

  • Overdevelopment or excessive scale

  • Highway safety issues (e.g. poor access or parking)

  • Impact on protected trees or wildlife

  • Incomplete or unclear documentation

Most refusals come with a written explanation, allowing you to amend your plans or appeal.

Objections to Your Planning Application

Neighbours, community groups or statutory consultees (like highways or environmental bodies) can raise objections. These usually relate to:

  • Overlooking or loss of privacy

  • Increased traffic or noise

  • Environmental concerns

  • Out-of-place design

While objections are considered, they don’t automatically result in refusal. If your application follows planning policies and is well designed, it still has a strong chance of approval.

Can I Apply for Planning Permission Myself?

Yes—you can apply on your own if you feel confident, especially for small projects like extensions or outbuildings. However, if your proposal involves structural changes, listed buildings or anything near conservation zones, it’s usually best to work with an architect or planning consultant. They’ll be familiar with the planning system and can present your case professionally.

Do I Need Planning Permission for Interior Work?

Generally, internal alterations do not need planning permission unless your property is listed or the changes affect the external appearance or structure. However, you may still need building regulations approval, especially if electrical or plumbing work is involved. Loft conversions with dormer windows or roof changes, for instance, usually fall into this category.

What’s the Difference Between Full and Outline Planning Permission?

  • Outline planning permission is like asking the council, “Would this type of development be OK in theory?” It’s common for new builds or larger projects.

  • Full planning permission includes all the detailed drawings and specifications needed for the actual build.

You can start with outline permission to test the waters, then submit a “reserved matters” application later to fill in the details.

Can I Make Changes After Getting Planning Permission?

Yes—but if you want to change any aspect of your approved plans, even slightly, you’ll need to submit an amendment. For small tweaks, this is called a non-material amendment, and it’s quicker and cheaper to process. For bigger changes, a minor material amendment or even a new application may be required.

How Much Does Planning Permission Cost?

Fees vary depending on the nature of your project:

  • Householder application (e.g. extensions): Around £258 in England

  • New single dwelling: Roughly £462

  • Outline permission: Also starts at £462

There may be extra charges if you use the council’s pre-application advice or need specialist reports (e.g. flood risk assessments).

Can My Neighbours Stop Me Getting Planning Permission?

Neighbours can object, but they can’t automatically block your plans. The council will consider objections, but only if they relate to material planning considerations—things like loss of privacy, overshadowing or access issues. Personal opinions or concerns about property value aren’t normally considered.

If your design is reasonable, within guidelines and doesn’t cause significant harm, it’s likely to be approved even with objections.