Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find definitions for planning terms?
What is planning permission?
What is permitted development?
How can I view recent planning applications?
How can I comment on current planning applications?
Do I need planning permission?
How do I make a planning application?
How much does a planning application cost?
How will other people who may be interested get to know about a planning application?
How long does it take to get a decision on a planning application?
How will I know when my planning application has been decided?
What can I do if my planning application is refused?
Where can I find definitions for planning terms?
We have published a planning and building control glossary on this website to help you understand some of the terms you may come across when involved in the planning process.
Planning Permission is formal approval by the Council, usually with conditions, of a planning application. Planning permission is given so that a development may proceed. Full permissions are usually valid for three years. Outline permissions, where the details of the development are reserved for later approval, are valid for three years.
What is permitted development?
Permitted development is minor developments and changes between use classes that are granted planning permission under the General Permitted Development Order 1988 (as amended) and for which a planning application is not required.
How can I view recent planning applications?
We publish a weekly list of planning application received by the council. You can also search for planning application details online.
How can I comment on current planning applications?
You can make comments on current applications by email (development.control@enfield.gov.uk). To find the application you wish to comment on, please use the online planning application search tool.
You may also submit you comments by post:
The Development Control Manager
London Borough of Enfield
PO Box 53
Civic Centre
Silver Street
Enfield EN1 3XE
Email: development.control@enfield.gov.uk
Do I need planning permission?
You do not always need planning permission. It is not required, generally speaking, for changes to the inside of buildings, or for small alterations to the outside such as the installation of telephone connections and alarm boxes.
Other small changes, for example putting up walls and fences below a certain height, have a general planning permission for which a specific application is not required.
If you are in any doubt about whether you need to apply, you should seek advice from Enfield's planning department.
How do I make a planning application?
You can make you planning applications online through the Planning Portal.
Application forms and guidance notes as well as information about the planning process is also available on this website.
How much does a planning application cost?
You can find information about planning application fees on this website.
How will other people who may be interested get to know about a planning application?
As part of the consultation process, the planning officer will write to residents who live near the proposed development.
We also publish a weekly list of planning applications on this website and anyone can view application details by using the planning application search tool.
View existing planning applications
How long does it take to get a decision on a planning application?
We aim to process the vast majority of applications within 8 weeks. An applicant can appeal to the Secretary of State against non-determination after 8 weeks.
Find out more about how long it takes
How will I know when my planning application has been decided?
You will be sent a decision notice. For most types of application this will be either an approval, usually with conditions that must be complied with, or a refusal stating why the application was unacceptable.
You can also view decision details on this website
What can I do if my planning application is refused?
If you are the applicant and you are dissatisfied with the Council’s decision to refuse your application you have a right to appeal to the Secretary of State. You must lodge your appeal within 3 months of being notified of the Council’s decision.
Find more information on appeals
This document was last updated on 2008-06-11 16:04:16 published by the Planning team. Document Reference:LBE_118196
