Planning Applications and Permission

Search, View and Comment on Planning Applications online here

Planning permission is needed for most forms of development and the Development Quality team is responsible for the processing of such applications.

Development can encompass a whole range of proposals, from small house extensions through to large residential estates, factories, shops, warehouses and the erection of sign and advertisements.

It is best to talk about the proposal with a member of the Development Quality team to determine the requirements for the development proposed and if planning permission is required. Officers in the Team will be able to provide written or verbal advice on relevant procedures, timescales etc. For contact information please see the foot of this page.

General Guidance

Further general guidance on which forms to fill in, whether you need planning permission and how much it is likely to cost is available from the ePlanning page www.eplanning.scotland.gov.uk.

Frequently Asked Questions

To assist you in understanding the planning application process we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions below.

ePlanning FAQs

To assist you in apply for planning applications whether electronically or in paper format, we have complied a list of frequently asked questions below.

How do I apply for Planning Permission online?

If you want to apply for Planning Permission, you can do so at www.eplanning.scotland.gov.uk. Simply register with the site, identify the location or property that you wish to make a planning application for and follow the steps and guidance through the online forms.

Can I still submit a paper application?

Yes. You can still download paper application forms and submit them in hardcopy, if this is your preferred approach.

Visit www.eplanning.scotland.gov.uk and click on the "Download Forms" tab.

Can all types of planning applications be sent electronically?

Electronic applications are most suitable for submitting small to medium sized applications, for example domestic dwellings, house extensions etc.

If you are unsure if an electronic application is appropriate for your application, please contact development_services@clacks.gov.uk or phone 01259 450000.

What happens when I apply online?

When you apply online, your application is sent electronically to us for determining your application. The website will identify the correct planning authority for your application by the location noted on your proposal. As you progress through the application forms and submit the application, the responsible planning authority is shown on the website.

The site will guide you through a number of steps, dependent on the type of application (or appeal) that you are submitting. There is help text and a user guide available throughout.

How will I know my Planning Authority has received my electronic application or appeal?

On submitting your application or appeal, an instant automated confirmation is sent to your email address from the ePlanning Scotland website. Once your application has been received by us, a second confirmation email will be sent by the individual authority.

How long will it take for my planning application to be determined using ePlanning?

ePlanning Scotland's primary aims are to make the planning system more efficient.

With ePlanning, automatic checks are carried out as users progress through the online forms. This will reduce the number of planning applications submitted to planning authorities incorrectly or without the necessary information, speeding up the processing times.

A decision with regard to your application should therefore be reached sooner, as a result of reduced delay in the processing and submission of your application.

How much does it cost to make a planning application online?

The cost of submitting a planning application online is the same as submitting a hardcopy application.

Planning fees are determined by the Scottish Government (The Town and Country Planning (Fees for Applications and Deemed Applications) (Scotland) Regulations 2004), and can be calculated using the fee calculator at www.eplanning.scotland.gov.uk. Alternatively you can view our Planning Application Fee Scale.

How do I pay for a planning application online?

You can pay for an application online using a variety of different methods including online payments, telephone payment and payment by cheque. More information is available on our Online Payments page.

Can I attach plans/drawings and supporting documentation with my electronic application?

Yes. There is, however, a size limit of 10 MB for each individual file added to your application and a total size limit of 50 MB for all your supporting documentation. If you need to exceed either of these limits, you will need to contact us or the Directorate for Planning and Environmental Appeals (DPEA) for further instructions.

What format should I send my attachments in?

We accept:

Can I look at all planning applications made in my area?

Yes, via www.clacks.gov.uk/eplanning/ you can search for, view and comment on planning applications online. You will also be able to view associated planning application documentation.

How do I track my applications progress?

You need to register on the website www.clacks.gov.uk/eplanning/ before you can track your planning application. Once registered, you will be able to view your application and receive email notifications of progress such as change of status or any new documents received.