Guide
Apply for planning permission in Scotland
Scotland
Scotland has its own planning system, separate from England and Wales. Planning applications are determined against the development plan (NPF4 plus the Local Development Plan) unless material considerations indicate otherwise.
Key differences from England
- Development plan status: NPF4 is part of the statutory development plan (the NPPF in England is guidance)
- Use classes: Scotland has a different use classes order (Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) (Scotland) Order 1997)
- Appeals: Local Review Body handles appeals for local developments (not the Planning Inspectorate)
- Community engagement: Pre-application consultation is mandatory for major developments