How to Apply for Planning Permission Online
Table of Contents
Understanding Planning Permission and Application Types
Preparing Your Planning Application Forms and Validation Requirements
What Information You'll Need to Provide
Document Checklist Before Submission
Creating Your Planning Application Site Location Plan
Understanding Planning Application Fees and Payment
Submitting Your Application Online
Finding Your Local Planning Authority Portal
Uploading Documents and Managing File Formats
Planning Permission Application Timescale and What Happens Next
Tracking Your Application Status
Responding to Validation Requests
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for Planning Permission Online
Frequently Asked Questions
Last Updated: October 6, 2026
Understanding Planning Permission and Application Types
Planning permission is the formal approval your local council requires before most building work. Without it, you risk enforcement action and having to undo completed work.
Not all building work requires planning permission. Single-storey extensions under certain sizes, loft conversions with specific roof heights, and some exterior alterations may fall under permitted development rights. If your proposal exceeds these thresholds or affects a conservation area, you'll need to apply.
The application type depends on what you're building. A full planning application covers most residential extensions, new builds, and significant alterations. A householder application is a simpler process for homeowners altering their own home. An outline application establishes whether development is acceptable in principle before you spend money on detailed drawings. Listed building consent is separate and required if your property is listed.
Getting the application type right saves time and money. Submit the wrong form and the council will reject it, forcing you to start again.
Preparing Your Planning Application Forms and Validation Requirements
Your planning application starts with the correct form. The planning application form (often called Form 1 or similar, depending on your local authority) is your main submission document, covering your contact details, the site address, the proposed development, and any relevant planning history.
Many councils now offer online submission portals where you complete forms directly on their website. Some still accept paper submissions, though online is faster and gives immediate confirmation of receipt. Check your local planning authority's website to see which method they prefer.
What Information You'll Need to Provide
Your application requires specific information about you, the property, and the proposal. You'll need your name, address, and contact details. If you're applying on behalf of someone else, you'll need their details and written permission.
For the property, you need the full address, the local authority area, and the planning application reference if you're amending an earlier application. You'll also confirm whether the building is listed, in a conservation area, or on other protected land.
For your proposal, describe exactly what you're building or altering, including the use of the building (residential, commercial, mixed use), the scale of the work (floor area, height, number of units), and any materials. Vague descriptions like "extension work" won't pass validation.
Document Checklist Before Submission
Before you upload anything, gather all required supporting documents. Every application needs a location plan showing where the site sits in relation to surrounding roads and buildings, usually a 1:1250 scale map with the site clearly marked.
You also need a site plan showing the current layout and proposed changes, including dimensions, existing trees or features, boundary lines, and parking or access arrangements.
Design and access statements explain your design choices and how the scheme meets local planning policy, brief for householder applications, more detailed for larger schemes. Planning statements set out why your proposal complies with planning policy.
Elevations and sections show what the building will look like from different angles and how it relates to neighbouring properties. Floor plans show the internal layout.
Check your local authority's validation checklist before submitting. Missing documents mean the council will request them before validating your application, adding weeks to your timeline.
Creating Your Planning Application Site Location Plan
The site location plan is one of the most important documents in your application. It shows the planning authority exactly where your site is and confirms they have jurisdiction to determine it.
Your location plan should be based on an up-to-date Ordnance Survey map at 1:1250 or 1:1500 scale, with the site clearly edged in red. Include at least two named roads or identifiable features, and show at least 100 metres beyond the site boundary for context.
Some councils provide digital mapping tools on their planning portal; others accept printed maps with the site marked in red pen. Digital submission is clearer and reduces the risk of unclear markings. If unsure of the preferred scale or format, email your council before preparing the plan.
Understanding Planning Application Fees and Payment
Planning application fees are set by central government but vary by type and scale. Householder applications for extensions typically cost £180 to £250. Full applications for larger schemes are charged on floor area, from around £200 for small buildings to several thousand pounds for major development.
Some applications are exempt from fees, including listed building consent, conservation area consent, and certain applications by public bodies. Applications for buildings used as primary schools may qualify for a fee reduction.
Payment is usually made online through your council's planning portal when you submit. Some councils still accept cheques or bank transfers, so check your local authority's website for payment methods and whether payment plans are available for large fees.
Once you've paid, you'll receive a receipt and an application reference number. Keep it safe, you'll need it to track your application and respond to council requests for further information.
Submitting Your Application Online
Finding Your Local Planning Authority Portal
Your first step is to find your local planning authority's online planning portal. Search "[your council name] planning portal" or visit your council's website and look for the "planning" or "apply for planning permission" section. Most councils have dedicated systems to submit applications, upload documents, pay fees, and track progress.
The portal usually has a postcode search to find your site. Some councils use the national Planning Portal (planningportal.org), while others run their own systems. A few smaller authorities still accept paper applications, but online submission is now standard and faster.
Once you've found the right portal, create an account with an email address and password. Most systems let you save your application as a draft and return later, which helps if you need to gather documents or clarify information before submitting.
Uploading Documents and Managing File Formats
When you upload documents, the council will specify which file types they accept. Most accept PDF, JPEG, and PNG files. Some accept TIFF or other formats. Check your local authority's guidance before converting your documents.
File size limits are typically 10-20 MB per document. If your drawings are large, compress them or split them into separate uploads. Name your files clearly with the document type and date (for example, "Site_Plan_20261006.pdf" rather than "Document1.pdf").
Upload documents in a logical order. Start with the application form, then location plan, site plan, drawings, and supporting statements. If you're submitting multiple versions of a document, clearly label which is the final version. Uploading the wrong version can lead to delays if the council doesn't notice and assesses the outdated scheme.
Before you hit submit, review your application one final time. Check that all required documents are uploaded, your contact details are correct, and your fee payment has gone through. Once you submit, you'll receive an online confirmation and an email with your application reference number.
Planning Permission Application Timescale and What Happens Next
Most planning applications take 8 to 13 weeks to determine. This is the statutory period set by planning law. However, timescales vary depending on the complexity of your proposal, how quickly you respond to council requests, and whether there are objections from neighbours or consultees.
The council will validate your application within the first 5 working days. They'll check that all required documents are present and in the correct format. If documents are missing or unclear, they'll ask you to provide them. This doesn't stop the clock on the determination period, but delays in responding will slow your progress.
Once validated, your application is formally registered and the determination period begins. The council will send copies to relevant consultees (highways, environmental health, building control, and sometimes others depending on your proposal). These organisations have 21 days to comment (Consultation and pre-decision matters). Neighbours will also be notified and given time to object.
Tracking Your Application Status
You can track your application online through the planning portal. Log in with your account details and search for your application using the reference number. The portal will show you the current status (submitted, validated, under consideration, decision issued), any documents uploaded by the council or consultees, and any deadlines for you to respond.
Most councils also send email updates at key stages. You'll receive confirmation when your application is validated, when a decision is made, and sometimes when consultee responses are received. If you don't receive updates, check the portal yourself rather than waiting.
The council's planning officers will assess your application against local planning policy, national planning guidance, and material considerations (such as the impact on neighbours, traffic, or heritage). They'll write a report recommending approval, refusal, or approval with conditions. This report is usually published a few days before the decision is issued.
Responding to Validation Requests
If the council asks for further information during validation, respond quickly. You typically have 5 working days, though you can request an extension. Delays in responding can result in your application being withdrawn or rejected.
Common validation requests include clarification of dimensions, additional drawings showing how your scheme fits with neighbours, or further information about materials or design. Sometimes the council asks for a planning statement explaining how your proposal complies with policy. These requests are standard and don't mean your application is in trouble, they just help the council assess it properly.
Submit additional documents through the same planning portal. Upload them clearly labelled with the date and a note explaining which validation request they address. Keep copies of everything you submit so you have a complete record of your application.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for Planning Permission Online
The most common mistake is submitting incomplete or unclear drawings. Dimensions must be clear, scales must be stated, and north points should be included on all plans.
Another frequent error is underestimating the detail required in supporting documents. A brief description of your extension isn't enough.
Don't ignore consultation responses. If neighbours object or a consultee raises concerns, the council will expect you to address them. You can submit further information responding to objections.
Missing deadlines is costly. If the council sets a deadline for further information and you miss it, your application may be rejected.
Don't assume your application will be approved just because it seems straightforward. Even simple extensions can be refused if they breach planning policy or harm neighbours. Understand the relevant policies for your site before you apply.
Finally, don't underestimate the value of professional help.
Applying for planning permission online is straightforward once you understand the process and have your documents prepared. The council's online portals make submission quick and give you real-time visibility of progress.
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents do I need for an online planning application?
Most online applications require a completed application form, site location plan, block plan, floor plans, elevations, and a design and access statement. Your local planning authority's website lists specific requirements based on your application type. Supporting documents such as structural engineer reports, drainage plans, or heritage assessments may be needed depending on your proposal. Check your authority's validation checklist before submitting to avoid delays.
How much does it cost to apply for planning permission online?
Planning application fees vary by local authority and depend on the scale and type of development. Residential extensions and larger projects can cost significantly more. Fees are calculated based on the building's floor area or the number of dwellings proposed. Your local council's website provides a fee calculator. Payment is made online when you submit your application, and you'll receive a receipt confirming the transaction.
How quickly can I get planning permission?
The standard decision period is 13 weeks from the date your application is validated. However, validation itself can take 1-2 weeks if documents are incomplete. Major applications or those requiring consultation may take longer. You can track your application's progress through your local authority's online portal. If your application is rejected, you have the right to appeal within three months of the decision notice.
Can I apply for planning permission myself, or do I need an architect?
You can apply yourself, but the process involves detailed drawings, technical specifications, and compliance with local planning policies. Many homeowners find professional support invaluable, particularly for complex projects like extensions or self-builds. An architect or planning consultant can ensure your application meets validation requirements, which can increase the likelihood of approval and help avoid costly rejections. They also manage the relationship with your local planning authority and respond to any requests for further information.
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