HOW MUCH DOES PLANNING PERMISSION COST?

Recent changes mean applying for planning might cost more than you realise. Our expert explains what you need to include in your self-build or home improvement budget

- SIMON RIX

For anyone embarking on a self-build or major home improvement project, planning permission is often one of the first hurdles - and one of the first costs. While it's easy to focus on land, materials or contractors, planning application fees can come as a surprise, particularly given recent increases across the UK.

In late 2023 and early 2024, all four UK nations either introduced or proposed changes to their planning fee regimes, with the aim of boosting resources for under- pressure planning departments. For applicants, though, this means higher upfront costs at a time when inflation and build costs are already biting.

Understanding how much you'll need to pay - and whether different rules apply, depending on where you live - is an essential part of budgeting. It also helps you plan ahead for potential resubmissions, appeals, or changes to your scheme, all of which can carry additional fees.

In this article, I'll explain what's changed, how the different systems compare, and what you need to know as a self-builder or homeowner to avoid being caught out. Whether you're applying for a full new dwelling or just a householder extension, it's worth being informed so you can plan ahead - especially if revisions, resubmissions or appeals come into play later down the line.

FEES IN ENGLAND

In England, planning application fees saw sharp increases in December 2023, followed by further adjustments in April 2025, making it the most expensive part of the UK for householder applications.

These fee hikes are part of the UK government's drive to inject more funding into under-resourced local planning departments. But for applicants - especially self- builders and home improvers - this means higher costs at the earliest stage of a project, with some fees more than doubling within the last 18 months.

The key planning fees in England, including the Planning Portal service charge (as of 2025), are as follows: