Start with the correct application type and the authority’s checklist. A complete submission is easier to move forward.
1. Define the project and ask early
Set out what you want to build or change and identify the planning authority responsible for the site. Ask which application type and supporting information fit your project. If you want pre-application advice, check what the service includes and whether it has a charge.
You can prepare an application yourself or appoint an agent. Agree who will produce drawings, answer council queries and monitor correspondence.
2. Prepare the submission
In England, requirements can include the application form, location and site plans, ownership information and supporting documents. The local authority may have additional requirements for your application type.
Give drawings consistent names and revision numbers. Check that the description, dimensions and site boundary agree across the documents. Use the council’s own checklist for the final check.
3. Submit through the right service
England: most planning applications can be submitted through Planning Portal; paper forms are also available. Check both the application fee and any portal service charge.
Wales: the Welsh Government provides the current online application route and downloadable forms. Northern Ireland: the shared portal serves ten councils and the Department for Infrastructure; Mid Ulster uses its own system. For Scotland, use the Scottish application guidance linked below.
4. Keep track of what happens next
Save the submission receipt and application reference, then check the authority’s acknowledgement. Look for any request for missing information and the date it accepts the application as valid.
When the record is available on Place Keys, you can follow it for recorded status and decision changes. Keep using council correspondence and the official register for formal deadlines.
Your next steps.
A quick checklist to keep your project moving.
- Confirm the authority and application type.
- Use its current document checklist.
- Check drawings, certificates and the proposal description.
- Confirm the current fee and submission route.
- Save the reference and monitor council correspondence.
Sources & further reading
Checked 28 September 2026. Each source’s country is shown below.
- GOV.UK: when permission is required ↗England
- nidirect: making a planning application ↗Northern Ireland
- Planning Portal: what to submit ↗England
- Planning Portal: plans and drawings ↗England
- Planning Portal: how to apply ↗England
- Welsh Government: apply for planning permission ↗Wales
- mygov.scot: how to apply ↗Scotland
- GOV.UK: after you apply ↗England; see country links for other systems