A planning application must be valid before the local planning authority will assess it. Validation checks that all required forms, documents, and fees are included. Invalid applications are returned, causing delays.
- National requirements
- Completed application form, site location plan (1:1250 or 1:2500), site/block plan (1:200 or 1:500), correct fee, ownership certificate, agricultural land declaration
- Design and access statement
- Required for major development and development in conservation areas (except householder)
- CIL additional information form
- Required in CIL-charging authority areas
- Biodiversity gain plan
- Required from February 2024 (major) and April 2024 (small sites)
- Heritage statement
- Required if site affects listed buildings, conservation areas, or scheduled monuments
- Flood risk assessment
- Required in Flood Zones 2 and 3, or sites over 1 hectare in Flood Zone 1
- Validation timescale
- LPA should confirm validity within 5 working days of receipt
Local validation requirements
Each local planning authority publishes a local validation checklist in addition to national requirements. Common local requirements include:
- Transport assessment or travel plan
- Tree survey and arboricultural impact assessment
- Ecological appraisal or preliminary ecological assessment
- Contaminated land assessment (for brownfield sites)
- Noise impact assessment
- Drainage strategy or sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) statement
- Air quality assessment (in Air Quality Management Areas)
- Daylight and sunlight assessment (for taller buildings)
Common validation failures
- Wrong fee: Fees changed in December 2023 - check the current schedule
- Incomplete plans: Missing north point, scale bar, or site boundary not edged red
- Missing certificates: Ownership certificate must match Land Registry records
- Missing CIL form: Even if you think development is exempt, the form is still required
- Wrong ownership certificate: Certificate A (sole owner) used when Certificate B or C applies