Make a planning application
Before submitting an application see if you need planning permission on the planning portal.
Information on planning fees
You will also need to know how much submitting an application will cost:
Building regulations approval
You may also need Building Regulations approval for building works or alteration. Please visit the Building Regulations and Control pages for details.
Pre-application advice
If planning permission is required for your proposed development, our pre-application advice service will give you a steer on whether you are likely to be successful with your planning application before it is submitted.
If we believe your application is unlikely to be successful, we can offer advice on how issues with the application can be overcome. This can save you time and money by enabling potential issues to be identified and resolved before the application is submitted.
Planning Application Validation List
We adopted our latest Planning Application Validation List (PAVL) on 25 February 2026. The list is due to come into effect on 1 June 2026.
The PAVL is set out by application type, summarising the relevant national criteria and specifying the locally required information.
The PAVL sets out the thresholds for when each item will or is likely to be requested. The glossary explains the standards and content expected for plans and information requested.
Supporting documents
The WNC Local Validation List Matrix is a quick reference tool to be used alongside the Validation List. It helps to identify which supporting documents, plans, and assessments are required for different types of planning applications.
The Rural Building Questionnaire is a local validation for Agricultural Prior Approvals. It is designed to gather essential information to allow the Local Planning Authority to determine these applications in an efficient manner.
Strategic Access Management and Monitoring Fee (SAMM)
Unit 1 of the Upper Nene Valley Gravel Pits Special Protection Area (SPA) is in West Northamptonshire. If your development is within 3km of Unit 1 of the SPA, you will need to pay a Strategic Access Management and Monitoring (SAMM) fee. To find out more see our Supplementary Planning Documents.
Submitting your application
When you are satisfied with your plans you can submit your application
Last updated 11 March 2026