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Planning advice and guidance

Last updated 31 May 2013

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​This section provides guidance on the planning and application process and planning permission.

The planning service

I need to know more about the planning service

The following documents tell you about the standard of service we aim to provide for the different aspects of the planning service:

  • Service Standards: The Planning Applications Service (110KB PDF file)
  • Planning Code of Practice 2012 (201KB PDF file)
    This document tells you about the procedures that are followed by officers and councillors to help ensure that we make planning decisions in an open and impartial manner, with sound judgement and for justifiable reasons
  • Enforcement Protocol (69KB PDF file)
    This document tells you about the procedures that are followed by enforcement officers to help ensure that the function is carried out in an equitable, practical and consistent manner

Preparing my planning application

See how do I prepare my planning application (115KB PDF file)

For assistance on completing your planning application form please read the relevant advice note for your type of application on the planning applications forms.

Information on the planning polices and supplementary planning guidance

Application process

I need to know more about the planning application process

The guide explains what happens to an application when we receive it: how we process it, site visit procedures, how we negotiate and the procedure for amendments

I need to know how to obtain advice before submitting an application

See pre planning application advice.

How does the Council decide planning applications?

The guide below explains the decision making process: how decisions are made by committee or by officers under "delegated powers” and how we inform you of the decision

I need to know how to complete a planning application

See how do I prepare my planning application (115KB PDF file)

For assistance on completing your planning application form please read the relevant advice note for your type of application on the planning applications page

Information on the planning polices and supplementary planning guidance

I need information about a planning application

Search for planning applications on the Planning Explorer

I need to comment on a planning application

See comment on a planning application.

I need to know how to view plans and documents

You can view the plans and documents for a particular planning application through the Planning Explorer. Or if you would like to obtain hard copies contact Development Management.

I need to know the difference between Development Control and Building Control

See difference between Development Control and Building Control (PDF file)

I need to know what planning policies apply in Waltham Forest

See Local Development Framework

I need help after my planning application has been decided

Below explains how to deal with planning conditions or how you can change your plans if your application was successful and how to put right any problems or how to appeal if we have refused your application.

My application was approved – what should I do next? (PDF file)
This guide will be of use once you have had your planning application approved. It explains what you need to do about conditions and the scope to amend your proposals

My application was refused – what should I do next? (PDF file)
This guide will be of use if you have had your planning application refused. It explains how you may be able to negotiate amendments and your rights to appeal against the Council's decision on your application

Best Practice Guide: Recycling Demolition Materials (PDF file)
This guide gives general advice on reducing the impact of construction and demolition waste on the environment and includes information on waste sites in the Waltham Forest area

Go to the Planning Inspectorate’s web site to find out more about planning appeals.

Planning Portal

The Planning Portal is a national on-line resource set up to help anyone who wants to know more about the planning process in England and Wales. The London Borough of Waltham Forest is pleased to partner with the Planning Portal to provide online planning tools

Planning applications

Create a planning application. The completed forms and documents can be submitted electronically or can be posted to us directly.

Do you need permission?

To find out whether your household project requires planning permission or contact the Duty Planning Officer on 020 8496 3000 or email dcmail@walthamforest.gov.uk.

Interactive House

The interactive guidance for householders

Greener homes and micro-generation

Find out about projects that make more efficient use of energy in the home

Building Regulations

Provides information on building regulations and includes downloadable approved documents

Planning on line tools

A selection of tools to calculate volume of proposed developments, required fees and carbon calculator.

Guidance on appeals

Provides information and guidance on the appeals process. If you seek permission to carry out works to your property and your application isn't decided within a set period, or you get a decision from your local council that you disagree with, you have a right to appeal. The Planning Inspectorate administers all appeals.

Information for professionals

A wide range of interactive services and guidance on the planning system for all professionals working in the sector.

Site location plan creator

Purchase a site location plan to attach to your application from one of the Planning Portal's accredited suppliers

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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