Applying for planning permission in any London borough can feel overwhelming. But with the right steps, it’s manageable.
Whether you’re building an extension, converting your dwelling, or changing use, this guide will help you confidently submit your application.
Step 1: Check if You Need Planning Permission
Before you make a planning application, always check if you need planning permission.
Some home changes fall under permitted development rights and don’t require formal consent. However, if you live in a listed building, conservation area, or plan to alter the structure, you will likely need to apply.
You can use the official Planning Portal website to confirm this.
Step 2: Get Pre-Application Advice
Most London boroughs offer pre-application advice.
This is your chance to:
- Discuss your proposal with a duty planner
- Understand local rules and potential issues
- Save time and money before submission
We recommend you get this advice to avoid delays and revise your plans early.
Step 3: Understand the Requirements List
Each borough has local information requirements.
Your planning application must include:
- Existing and proposed floor plans and elevations
- Site location plan (to scale)
- Application form and ownership certificate
- Design and access statement (for major applications or listed buildings)
- Application fee
Check your council’s requirements list to avoid missing documents.
Step 4: Complete and Submit Your Application
Once your documents are ready, it’s time to submit a planning application.
You can do this online via the Planning Portal or through your local council.
Make sure to:
- Upload all documents
- Include payment for the application fee
- Confirm drawings are larger than A3 if submitting hard copies
The submission must be clear, accurate, and complete to avoid delays.
Step 5: Validation and Review
After submission, your application is reviewed.
The council will validate it to ensure all parts are correct. If something’s missing, it will be returned.
Once validated, the application process begins, including:
- Public consultation
- Review by case officer
- Site visits (if required)
You may be asked to revise your plans during this stage.
Step 6: Await a Decision
A decision usually arrives within 8 weeks (or 13 for significant development).
Your proposal will be approved, refused, or approved with planning conditions.
If refused, you can appeal or amend and resubmit.
The outcome will be based on:
- Local development policies
- Neighbour impact
- Building works scale
When You May Need Permission
You may need permission if you:
- Build a single-storey rear extension beyond 3m (terraced) or 4m (detached)
- Install new windows and doors in a listed building
- Change from residential to commercial (change of use)
- Alter rooflines or add dormers
- Subdivide a dwelling into flats
Even internal changes may trigger rules in conservation areas.
When You May Not Need Permission
Under permitted development, you might not need approval for:
- Small rear extensions within limits
- Porch additions
- Loft conversions that meet the criteria
Still, always check if you need planning to be sure. You can also apply for a certificate of lawful development.
Understanding Planning Enforcement
If you build without permission when it’s required, you risk a planning enforcement issue.
This could result in:
- A request to amend the build
- Fines or legal action
- Demolition of unauthorised work
Always make sure your plans and designs comply before starting.
Helpful Planning Advice for Homeowners
- Start early: the application takes time
- Budget for planning advice and redraws
- Speak to a professional to help you make a planning application
- Use accurate, clear plans to avoid delays
Every homeowner project is unique. Good planning helps your ideas come to life.
Borough-Specific Considerations
Every London borough has its quirks:
- The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea has strict conservation rules
- The London Borough of Harrow enforces tight control on height and design
- Southwark, Camden, and Hackney all offer helpful planning advice services
Visit your borough’s site or speak with a local planning officer.
What Happens After You Get Permission?
Once approved, you must:
- Begin building within 3 years
- Adhere to any planning conditions
- Notify building control before starting
You may also need separate building regs approval for safety, energy, and access.
Don’t assume planning permission covers every legal requirement.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting vague or incomplete documents
- Ignoring pre-application steps
- Underestimating the timeline
- Missing borough-specific details
Following our step-by-step process can save you time and money.
