Guide

What Drawings Does a Planning Application Need?

The exact information depends on the proposal and local validation checklist, but residential applications commonly need a location plan, site or block plan, existing and proposed floor plans, elevations and sometimes sections or roof plans.

Reviewed September 2026

The exact information depends on the proposal and local validation checklist, but residential applications commonly need a location plan, site or block plan, existing and proposed floor plans, elevations and sometimes sections or roof plans.

Location and site information

The location plan identifies the application site in its wider setting. A site or block plan explains boundaries, buildings, access and the position of the proposal.

Existing and proposed plans

Separate, clearly labelled drawings allow the council to compare the property before and after the work.

Elevations, roof plans and sections

External changes should be shown on all relevant elevations. Sections help where levels, height, roof relationships or neighbouring context cannot be understood from plans alone.

Local validation requirements

Each council publishes requirements that can add photographs, statements, heritage, drainage, ecology or other information depending on the site and development.

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