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Frequently Asked Planning Questions (FAQ's)This page provides answers to some frequently asked questions regarding planning. 
Q. Where can I find out progress and decisions on an application?The online database has information on progress on applications made to the Borough Council. It will include details of the decision after it has been made along with information about any appeal against the decision. However, some planning applications including those for minerals and waste development and applications related to county council services are made to Hertfordshire County Council. Its website contains details, progress and decisions on these applications which are decided by the County Council. Q. Can I view the detailed planning application online?Yes, the online database has information on most Borough Council planning applications since 1985. After 1995 the database includes some information on appeals, legal agreements and copies of decision notices. Q. How do I find out if there was a planning application on a site before 1985?The interactive map shows the reference number of most planning applications since 1974. Details of these applications can be seen at our offices in Welwyn Garden City. Please contact the Planning Support Team if you are making a special visit to make sure we have the information you need. Q. Where do I go for non-council advice about any aspect of the planning process?There are several website/organisations which you may wish to use to find help:
Q. Can I find out what planning restrictions apply to operating a business from my home?Information can be found on our Altering your home? web page. Q. Can you tell me who owns land, a boundary or fence?Sorry, we do not have this information. You may want to try checking your deeds or tenancy agreement. If these are not clear or don't cover the land you need information on, there are several places you can go to for further help:
Q. What can I do if my neighbour wants to make changes to my property?Sorry, we can only look at the planning issues rather than your rights as a homeowner. However, you may want to check your rights with your solicitor and/or under the Party Wall Act. Q. How do I find out if my building ideas may get planning permission?The primary basis for consideration of any planning application is the Development Plan. This lists the policies that your proposals will be judged against. To find out whether your house is in a conservation area or is a listed building, please refer to the Interactive Map . You may also want to check what other people have applied for in the area through the Planning application database . Alternatively we offer Pre-application Advice to potential applicants. Q. Do you recommend builders?No, the council is not able to make recommendations for building companies. Q. Have I got permitted development rights?When planning permission is granted originally for some developments permitted development rights may be removed to allow the council to retain control over future development on the site. Therefore, before going ahead with any development you are advised to speak with a planning officer to determine whether permitted development rights have been removed. Q. How much does it cost to apply for planning permission?The cost for a householder application is £172. The cost for minor and major applications will vary depending on the nature and size of a development. The web link to the right includes application forms and further information on fee's. Q. What do I need to do to get planning permission?You will need to complete an application form either yourself or through an agent such as a planning consultant or architect. This needs to be submitted with the plans detailing your proposals, relevant documents and the correct fee. The validation checklist for the type of application detail all the information required. Further information is available within Make a Planning Application. Q. Who can I get to draw my plans?Plans need to be clear and detailed and drawn to metric scale. You can draw your own plans but most people will employ a planning agent or architect to do this for them. The Council is not able to make recommendations in relation to agent/architect services. Q. How do I get an Ordnance Survey map for my application?Every planning application needs a site location plan and block plan showing the location and boundaries of the site you are planning to work on. You can use the Planning Portal's 'Buy a Plan' service to ensure that you meet our requirements, whether you are a planning professional or first-time applicant. Q. Who gets notified of my application?A number of people will be notified of, or consulted on your planning application. This will include neighbours of the site, elected members (your Ward Councillor), Town and Parish Councils and statutory consultees such as the Environment Agency and Hertfordshire Highways. Q. How long does it take to get a decision for planning permission?A decision on a planning application should be made no later than eight weeks from the date of validation of the application. This timescale is different for major planning applications where the decision should be made within 13 weeks. Q. Who makes decisions on planning applications?91 per cent of applications are dealt with under delegated powers. This means that the case officer for the application makes a recommendation to the Head of Planning who has the authority to make the decision on the application. All other decisions are made at the Planning Control Committee which is made up of Elected Members. The Committee is open to all members of the public to attend and speak. Q. How can you find out what a decision was on an application?Information on decisions made on planning applications can be viewed on the council's website, at the council offices in Welwyn Garden City, or by phoning the Development Control section. If you would like a copy of a decision notice this can be obtained from the council. A fee will be payable and is dependent upon the number of pages to the decision. Please contact us for more details. Q. Am I covered by Estate Management and what is it?Welwyn Garden City is one of only two Garden Cities in the country. In recognition of the quality of the garden city environment and to protect the amenities of residents the High Court, in 1973 imposed a Scheme of Management covering most of the town. The council is keen to ensure that the town's environment continues to be of the highest quality. Because of this consent is required for:
This consent is separate from the need to apply for Planning Permission and Building Regulation approval which may also be required. The If you cannot find what you're looking for on our planning pages please let us know here or email planning@welhat.gov.uk Q. Is planning permission needed to rent my property out?In Hatfield, planning permission is required (from 12th January 2012) if you are going to use your property as a House in Multiple Occupation. Q. When is the next Development Consultation Forum?Development Consultation Forum's as held as required to give local councillors and neighbours a chance to see developers proposals early in the planning application process. Q. Does the council provide any help so my works reduce energy and water use?We help with providing guidance on how new works could be built. In addition, the Building Control Officers can give you some pre-application advice on conserving fuel, power and water. This page was last updated on 25/03/2013 |
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