5 Common Mistakes People Make on Planning Permission Applications – And How to Avoid Them

Applying for planning permission can feel like stepping into a maze of rules, forms, and local authority guidelines.

While many applications are approved without trouble, some are delayed—or even refused—due to avoidable errors.
From years of architectural experience, I’ve seen the same mistakes crop up time and again.
Here are the five most common ones and how you can steer clear of them.

1. Submitting Incomplete or Incorrect Drawings

It’s surprisingly easy to overlook a crucial detail on your drawings—maybe a missing dimension, an unclear elevation, or the wrong scale.
Local authorities expect clear, accurate, and comprehensive plans. If a drawing leaves them guessing, your application may be returned for revisions.

How to avoid it:
Always double-check your plans against the local planning authority’s submission checklist.
If you would rather still have a professional prepare your planning permission drawings so nothing gets missed.

2. Ignoring Local Planning Policies

Each council has its planning policies, covering everything from building height to materials used.
Ignoring these is like trying to pass an exam without reading the syllabus—you’re more likely to fail.

How to avoid it:
Review your council’s local development plan before you start designing.
It will save you from costly redesigns later and improve your chances of approval.

3. Overlooking Neighbour Impact

Many refusals stem from objections by neighbours—often about loss of light, privacy, or the scale of the proposal.

How to avoid it:
Think about how your design affects neighbouring properties. Small adjustments, like repositioning windows or reducing building height, can make all the difference.
Sometimes, a friendly chat with neighbours before submitting your application can prevent objections later.

4. Using Vague or Incomplete Application Forms

Even if your drawings are perfect, a poorly completed application form can derail the process. Missing details, vague descriptions, or inconsistent information can raise red flags.

How to avoid it:
Take your time filling out the forms and make sure all sections are completed clearly.
Cross-check details—like floor area and site address—against your drawings to ensure consistency.

5. Not Seeking Professional Guidance Early Enough

Many people only contact an architect after their first application is refused. By then, they’ve lost time, money, and momentum.

How to avoid it:
If your project is even slightly complex, seek professional advice from the outset.
A qualified architect or planning consultant can anticipate potential problems and design your project to meet both your needs and the council’s requirements.

Final Word

Planning permission doesn’t have to be a stressful process.
By avoiding these five common mistakes—and approaching your application with preparation and precision—you can dramatically increase your chances of approval.

If you’d like expert help with planning permission drawings or 3D visualisations that meet your local authority’s requirements, get in touch with Wonderspace today.
We’ll handle the details so you can focus on bringing your vision to life.