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Q&As
How do I submit an outline planning permission application?
I want to submit an outline planning application but I'm finding the process quite confusing, especially in regards to two specific aspects of the criteria. Firstly, how do I calculate the angle of elevation for a bungalow roof that includes a dormer window? Secondly, what's the easiest way to convert my drawings to the required scale needed on the application? Any additional advice on how to complete the application would be much appreciated as I'm also struggling to find an architect to help - most will only do so for a full planning application. Thank you.
One Answer
Hi Ann,
Thanks so much for getting in touch with your question. There is no requirement to get an architect, or any professional, to prepare drawings or submit a planning application for you. If you have some drawing skills and the patience to navigate the forms on the Planning Portal (planningportal.co.uk), you can prepare and submit a planning application yourself, and lots of people do.
To meet the requirements of the planners, your drawings must be accurate, clear and to an identified scale (1:100 or 1:50, say). You would usually have a scale bar on the plans, and label them so that they can be individually identified in future discussions and listed on the council’s final decision notice.
Be careful though: inaccurate plans can cause all sorts of problems and plans that do not look very professional could turn the planners against your proposal. Architects can be expensive but they bring a lot to a project, they produce high quality plans, but can also advise on best use of space, build costs and practicalities etc. It is a false economy if you end up with an avoidable refusal of planning permission, or an approval for something that doesn’t make best use of the site or isn’t affordable to build.
You mention that you have had some difficulty finding an architect willing to help, it may be worth persevering. I generally recommend looking up the council’s planning website for similar applications in your local area and contacting the architects who worked on them.
Best of luck with your plans,
Martin Gaine (Build It’s Planning expert)