Your Step-by-Step Guide to Planning Success

• Clear your browser cache before logging into the UK Planning Gateway. This ensures the site works smoothly and you’re seeing the latest updates and saved information.
• Create an account or log in at UK Planning Gateway before starting your application. All your drafts and submitted applications are securely saved in your dashboard.
• Use the site address as your application name for easy reference and faster identification by your Local Planning Authority (LPA).
• Complete the forms in sentence case (normal upper and lower case writing with a capital letter at the start of each sentence) this helps the LPA process your application quickly..
• Archive old applications once your LPA has received and validated your submission. You’ll always have access to your application history in your account.

Electronic Communications

Include your email address and opt in for electronic updates. This way, the LPA can send you notifications, requests for further information, and updates directly, speeding up the process.

Step 1: Create a New Application

1. Log in or create an account at UK Planning Gateway
2. Click ‘Start New Application‘ in your dashboard
3. Name your application using your site address, such as “12 Oak Avenue, Leeds”
4. Enter your project location using the postcode finder and map tool. The system will automatically find the right Local Planning Authority for you
5. Select your application type. If you are not sure, our website gives you tips and help for each option

Your application saves automatically as a draft, so you can return any time.

Once you have confirmed these basic details, your newly created application will be saved as a ‘Draft’ in your ‘Applications’ section ready for you to start completing it or to return to work on it later.

The ‘My Applications’ list can be accessed by logging in and viewing your applications on the ‘Applications’ screen.

Step 2. Complete Your Application Form

• Work through each section of the online form. The progress bar shows what you have finished and what is left to do
• Every question has clear help and example answers. Use “not applicable” if a question does not apply, but always check if your LPA needs more details
• Your personal contact details are private and will not be published

Step 3. Upload Your Plans and Documents

• You can upload files up to 20MB each, including PDFs, JPGs, DOCX, PNGs, and more
• Use simple file names like “SitePlan.pdf” or “DesignStatement.docx”
• Make sure all plans include a scale bar, north arrow, and the paper size or scale. Use A3 paper size when you can
• Double check your uploads to remove emails, phone numbers, or signatures
• The system will tell you if you are missing any required documents before you submit

Attach supporting documentation

Most applications require more information than can be provided by the application form alone.

Mandatory documents

The Local Planning Authority (LPA) will not be able to process your application unless all the mandatory supporting documentation has been provided.

Please note: unless at least one attachment (or alternative submission method) is supplied for each mandatory item in the Supporting Documents section, the system will not allow you to submit your application.

There are two levels of mandatory documents, national and local:

• National  The application service will tell you what mandatory documentation you need to provide in support of your application.
• Local The LPA will have produced a list (usually available from a link in the right-hand side panel on the supporting documents screen called ‘Find out about local level document requirements’) which details any specific documentation that is required to accompany the application, in addition to the national requirements.

Optional documents

You can also attach any other relevant documentation which you think will help the LPA decide on the application.

Please note: You should not attempt to submit additional applications by supplying completed PDF application forms as supporting documents to another application.

Every application needs to be submitted separately, regardless of submission method.

Step 4. Calculate and Pay Your Fee

• Use our fee calculator to check the latest government fee for your application type
• There is no extra service charge. You only pay the official planning application fee
• Pay by credit or debit card, bank transfer, or request an invoice
• You and your LPA will get instant confirmation of payment

Step 5. Review and Submit Your Application

• Your dashboard shows when each section is complete with a green bar and blue tick
• Review your answers and uploaded files
• Click ‘Submit’ to send your application. You will get a confirmation email with your reference number right away. Your LPA receives your application instantly

Step 6. Amend or Update Your Application

• If you need to change anything before your LPA validates your application, click ‘Amend Application’ in your dashboard
• After validation, contact your LPA if you need to update or change your application
• All versions, uploads, and messages are saved in your account for easy reference

What happens next

Once the Local Planning Authority (LPA) has received your application successfully you will receive a confirmation email from the UK Planning Portal. This email will include a unique reference number which should be quoted in all correspondence with the LPA. Your reference number is also available from the ‘Applications’ page and within your application overview.

Please note: The email from the Planning Portal does not constitute the formal acceptance of your electronic submission by your Local Planning Authority.

Once the LPA has received your application, supporting documents and payment, it will register and validate it within its normal workflow processes and timescales. If the LPA needs more information or has any queries it will contact you directly.

For further information on the progress of your online application please contact your local authority quoting your reference number.

Why Use UK Planning Gateway?

Submitting a planning application shouldn’t be stressful, confusing, or slow. UK Planning Gateway is a modern, independent alternative to the Planning Portal, built specifically to make the planning process faster, simpler, and more transparent for homeowners, architects, and planning professionals. Here’s how to submit your planning application online using UK Planning Gateway and avoid common pitfalls that slow down or derail applications.

• No hidden charges (no £70+VAT admin fee)
• Bigger uploads, instant file checks
• Modern dashboard and status tracking
• Fast, real support when you need it
• Simple, step-by-step guidance for every application

Quick Fact: Over 80% of delays in planning applications are caused by simple mistakes or missing information. UK Planning Gateway helps you avoid these from the start.

Ready to start? Create a free account or contact us if you need help.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I submit a planning application online?
Sign up or log in, start a new application, complete the online form, upload your documents, pay the fee, and submit; all in your dashboard.

Can I track my planning application?
Yes. Your Gateway dashboard gives real-time status updates and stores all your files and messages.

What documents do I need to upload?
You will usually need a site plan, elevations, a design statement, and sometimes specialist reports. The checklist in your application will show exactly what is needed.

Can I make changes after submitting?
Yes, if your LPA has not validated your application yet. Otherwise, contact the LPA to discuss next steps.