‘How much does it cost to get planning permission?’
This is a question we get asked a lot, and it’s not a simple one to answer. The cost of planning permission in the UK can vary depending on the type and scale of the development, as well as the location. What we can do, is break down where the costs are coming from, as well provide examples.
Without further ado, let’s compare and contrast the fees you’ll expect to pay for planning across the UK.
*All figures fact-checked and deemed correct at the time of publishing
THE UP-FRONT COSTS
Once granted, full planning permission is typically valid for three years, meaning the development must begin within this timeframe. If work does not start, the permission will lapse, and a new application would be required.
Here is a look at how the costs compare across the UK:
| COUNTRY | FULL PLANNING APPLICATION FEE |
| SCOTLAND | £600 |
| ENGLAND | £624 |
| WALES | £460 |
| NORTHERN IRELAND | £868 |
If you want to extend, alter or convert a part of your house, you’ll need to apply for householder planning consent. This application is usually around half the cost of full planning permission, but only covers certain works.
| COUNTRY | HOUSEHOLDER APPLICATION FEE |
| SCOTLAND | £300 |
| ENGLAND | £258 |
| WALES | £230 |
| NORTHERN IRELAND | £291 |
If you are granted planning permission subject to conditions, you will need to make a separate request to have these details approved – such as entryways to landscaping. Resubmitting your application in this case thankfully comes at no extra charge.
It's important to note that these figures are general estimates and can be subject to change. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, you should check with the local planning authority in the area where the development is proposed. If you are unsure of the fee applicable, you can always contact your local planning authority. You can find a breakdown of the fees for each country below:
- Planning fees for Scotland
- Planning fees for England
- Planning fees for Wales
- Planning fees for Northern Ireland
WHAT ABOUT PRE-APPLICATION ADVICE?
Planning Pre-application advice is a wiser investment for major self-build projects. It’s an opportunity for your local planning authority to review your project and provide valuable feedback before the full permission is granted. Although the advice provided can be hugely beneficial, the feedback provided during the pre-application is not legally binding, and compliance with the advice does not guarantee formal planning approval. You can find out more about pre-application advice here.
The cost of a pre-application for self-builders depends on your local council. We’ve seen prices ranging from £50 – 400. You should expect to pay around half of the full planning application fee, and this information can be found on your local council's website. To give you an idea of pricing, we’ve gathered a few examples across England and Scotland. Keep in mind that this advice has a base fee, and the fee may increase if a face-to-face meeting or further advice is requested.
| SCOTTISH COUNCILS | PRE-APPLICATION FEE |
| STIRLING | £208.80 |
| GLASGOW CITY | £180 |
| SCOTTISH BORDERS | £175 |
| ARGYLL & BUTE | £100 |
| ENGLISH COUNCILS | PRE-APPLICATION FEE |
| YORK CITY | £218.40 |
| NEWCASTLE | £207 |
| HAMMERSMITH & FULHAM | £373 |
| BURY | £105 |
WHAT ABOUT RETROSPECTIVE PLANNING COSTS?
If you haven’t been granted planning permission but have already started construction, don’t worry. This application will be subject to the same criteria as a standard full planning application. Essentially, it’s a way to regularise unauthorised work after it has been completed.
The process for applying for retrospective planning permission is the same as for a standard planning application. You must submit detailed plans, drawings, and any necessary supporting documents to your planning authority.
Costs for retrospective planning permission are the same as full planning permission in England. This is not the same in Scotland, which generally has a 25% increase on the normal application fee.
LAWFUL DEVELOPMENT CERTIFICATE
Although not a requirement, we recommend you obtain a Lawful Development Certificate (LDC) to protect and ensure your Permitted Development rights. You can apply for a certificate through the government planning portal.
This documentation acts as a form of proof that your project was completed lawfully, should you receive complaints from your neighbours, or decide to sell your property in the future. Here is a comparison of prices:
| COUNTRY | LAWFUL DEVELOPMENT CERTIFICATE |
| SCOTLAND | £101 |
| ENGLAND | £103 |
| WALES | £85 |
| NORTHERN IRELAND | £289 |
To summarise, the cost of planning permission in the UK varies widely depending on the type and scale of the proposed development. From householder applications for simple home improvements to full planning applications for new dwellings or large-scale developments, fees are structured to reflect the complexity and potential impact of the project. Fees differ across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
As always, consulting with the local planning authority or a planning professional can provide clarity and help navigate the intricacies of the UK's planning system.