Planning FAQs

The questions we get asked most frequently about the planning application process are:

How do I find out about land or property ownership?

• View Land Registry website.
• See Getting details about land or property ownership on the DirectGov website.

Do I need planning permission?

Planning law is very complex.  Most development or change of use requires planning permission.  Guidelines can be found:

• On the Planning Portal website.
• At  Do I need planning permission?.

Can I get advice before I submit my application?

Yes, you can get advice for

• all new build residential and commercial developments
• advertisement applications
• resubmitted schemes, and
• householder proposals.

For other development proposals we have a range of information available to help you.

• See Pre-application enquiries.

Which application form do I need?

• See Planning application forms.
• The Planning Portal will help you choose the correct form when you submit online.

How do I make a planning application?

• Online at the Planning Portal.
• Download a form - see Planning application forms.

For further advice see:

• Submitting an application.
• Pre-application enquiries for help before you submit your application.

Please note that your application form and accompanying drawings and documents will be made available on the internet.

How much does it cost?

A householder planning application costs £150. For guidance on the cost of other types of planning applications see:

• Planning application fees

How long does it take?

We aim to make a decision within eight weeks of receiving a valid application.  Large or complex applications may take longer.

What happens to a planning application?

Once we have received a valid application, it is given to a planning officer.  After registration:

• we send an acknowledgement letter to the agent/applicant
• we publicise and consult on the application
• the application is considered by either the planning officer or a Development Control Committee and in most cases a decision is reached
• we notify the applicant of the decision.

How do I find out about other people's planning applications?

We publicise applications by:

• sending individual letters to residents and groups
• posting site notices close to the application site
• placing advertisements in the Bristol Evening Post
• posting a Weekly List of Registered Applications on our website.

You can also:

• Use our online application search facility Planning Online.
• Receive details of planning applications in your area, by registering your postcode with PlanningFinder.

How do I comment on planning applications?

Comments on current applications must be made in writing:

• online - see Planning Online
• by email - development.management@bristol.gov.uk
• by post - City Development, Brunel House, St George's Road, Bristol, BS1 5UY.

You must always quote the application number and comments must be based on planning matters. For more information:

• See Commenting on planning applications.

Why has my application been referred to committee?

Applications for larger scale and particularly sensitive or controversial schemes, may be referred to a Development Control Committee made up of elected councillors.  For more information see:

• Development Control Committees

What happens to applications that have been referred to committee/Can I speak at the committee?

We will notify applicants and people who have commented on the application, and this will include details of the venue and time of the meeting.  You can also find out details of committees on our website.

You can speak at the committee.  For more information see

• Having your say at Bristol City Council Development Control Committees . (pdf, 120 KB) (opens new window)

Can I make changes to my planning permission after it has been granted?

Minor changes can be made but must

• be very small and
• must not change your permission in any significant way.

You will need to fill in the Non-material amendment to a planning permission form.

• See Planning application forms.

We aim to make a decision within 28 days. If you wish to make more significant changes, you will have to make a further planning application.

What is a non-material amendment ?

• For further advice see Non-material amendments to planning permission

Will I need any other permission?

You may need other permissions such as building regulations approval. For more information:

• See Building control.

How do I appeal against a planning decision?

If you are an applicant you can appeal to the Secretary of State at the Planning Inspectorate.
For more information:

•  See Planning appeals.