First-time applicant guide
A simple step-by-step guide to understanding and submitting
a planning application for the first time.
Do I need planning permission?
Some projects require planning permission, and others fall under permitted development.
Planning permission is usually needed for:
Larger extensions or major alterations
New buildings
Changing the use of a property
Developments that significantly affect appearance, layout, access, or neighbours
Permitted development covers smaller works like:
Small garden structures
Fences or boundary walls
Minor external changes
Planning permission
vs. building regulations
Planning permission decides what you’re allowed to build or change. Building regulations decide how it must be built, ensuring safety, structure, fire protection, accessibility and energy efficiency.
Many projects require both, and they are separate applications with separate fees.
See planning project types to
Who can apply?
You don’t need to be the owner to submit a planning application, but you must notify them.
You can apply if you are:
The property owner
A leaseholder with at least 7 years remaining
A tenant or anyone with the landowner’s permission
An agent acting on behalf of a client (e.g., architect or planning consultant)
Should I use pre-application advice?
Pre-application advice is an optional service from your LPA that gives early feedback on your proposal. It can help you understand whether your idea is likely to be supported and highlight any issues before you spend money on full drawings or submit your application.
How Planda Portal helps instead
STEP 1
Instead of waiting weeks for formal pre-application advice, you can submit your project details through Planda Portal and get an instant pre-submission check.
STEP 2
Platform reviews your proposal against:
Typical issues LPAs flag
Missing documents or drawings
Application type and eligibility
STEP 3
You’ll receive clear guidance on what needs attention before your application is sent to the council - helping you avoid delays, invalidation, or unnecessary costs.
Choose the right application type
Home extensions and alterations
We help you understand if you need permission, what your permitted development rights are, and how to submit a compliant application.
Commercial or residential developments:
Get straight to what matters: validation requirements, local policies, and council-specific processing times.
What you need to submit
Submitting everything correctly is essential for validation.
Completed Application form
Site/Block plan
Location plan
An agricultural holdings certificate
Correct application fee
Check your council
A Fire Statement (for certain building types)
Scaled drawings: floorplans, elevations, sections, roof plans…
Extra reports or surveys required by your local authority
A Design & Access Statement
How to apply
Online
Fastest and most reliable method
By Paper
Only required in rare cases
Simplest way - Planda Portal
Our platform guides you through the form, checks your documents against national and local requirements, and flags issues before you submit - reducing the risk of delays or invalidation.
What happens after you submit:
STEP 1
Validation
The council checks you’ve provided all required documents
STEP 2
Public Register
Your application becomes viewable online
STEP 3
Consultation
neighbours and statutory bodies are invited to comment
STEP 4
Assessment
A planning officer reviews the proposal, plans, and comments
STEP 5
Decision
Made either by the officer or by elected councillors at committee
Most decisions are made in:
8 weeks for minor/householder applications
13 weeks for larger developments
Join thousands of homeowners and developers who've simplified their planning journey
