Apply for planning permission
Create an application
Planning applications are submitted using the national Planning Portal website. This portal makes applying quicker and easier than ever before and also means that you do not have to print out plans or post any forms to us.
On the planning portal you can:
- apply for planning permission
- apply for listed building consent
- create a location plan and a site plan
- attach supporting documents and information (such as plans and photographs)
- pay the correct application fee (the portal works out the fee for you)
Please note: any reports that are submitted to this authority will be published on our website without the redaction of signatures unless expressly asked otherwise at the time of submission.
For support on submitting an application via the planning portal, you can email their service desk team at support@planningportal.co.uk or call 0333 323 4589. Available Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm (excluding bank holidays).
We also accept paper submissions of planning applications. These can be handed into the reception desk at the council offices during opening times. This carries an additional charge of £21, which can be paid when handing the plans into reception, or over the phone.
What do I need to have a valid application?
When you submit an online application, the first thing we do is check you've provided all the information we need to assess it. We call this process ‘validation’.
A valid application completed online via the planning portal, should:
- meet relevant local validation list requirements. Download our list.
- include a completed application form, with a completed certificate of ownership (unless the application is for permission in principle).
- include a location plan, site plans and where relevant elevations, floor and roof plan.
Submitting a valid application does not mean that your application has been approved, it simply means that we have all the information we need to consider your application in a timely manner.
Getting a valid application can sometimes be a complex process. To help with this, we offer a pre-validation checking service which is free for householders.
You can see all valid applications online.
In some cases you may be asked to submit further details or to clarify your proposals. Effective 1 April 2026, there are new charges on invalid applications where the required information is not submitted within 28 days. The new fees are as follows:
- householder applications £50.00
- non-major applications £150.00
- major applications £250.00
Site/block plan requirements
A site plan/block plan may be required with your application. If you are unsure as to what information should be provided in such a plan, an example is available to download:
Further assistance
You can check the architects’ registration board register to see if someone is an architect.