Understanding the cost of applying for planning permission is one of the most important steps before beginning any architectural project. Whether you're planning a house extension, building a new home, converting a loft, or launching a commercial development, you need to know what you're likely to pay in planning fees. At dRAW Architecture, we've created this Planning Application Fee Calculator to give you a quick, accurate estimate based on your project details, helping you plan with confidence and avoid surprises.
Our intuitive tool considers your location (England, Wales, or Scotland), your project type, and the scale of your build. Within seconds, you’ll have a realistic idea of what the application fee could cost, plus useful insights, guidance, and recommendations from our expert team. If you're asking "How much is a planning application?" or looking for a trusted UK planning fee calculator, you're in the right place.
Using our free calculator is quick, easy, and requires no personal information. It’s been specifically developed to reflect the UK planning system, including local authority fee guidance and development types common across England, Scotland, and Wales. Here’s how to use it effectively:
This tool is designed for homeowners, developers, landlords, and anyone navigating planning permission in the UK. At dRAW Architecture, we built this with the needs of our clients in mind, simplifying the planning permission fee UK landscape and providing real-time, useful insights.
Once you input your project details, the calculator generates a clear, upfront estimate. Fees vary based on project type, location, and size. Here's a simplified example of what the calculator might return:
Project Type
Area (m²)
Location
Estimated Fee
Rear Extension
30
England
£206
New Build Home
250
Scotland
£485
Flat Conversion
-
Wales
£440
Commercial Development
400
England
£980
Our estimate includes:
At dRAW Architecture, we ensure our fee calculator is regularly updated to reflect current regulations and national fee schedules. For projects exceeding 250m², additional fee multipliers are applied, in line with 2025 planning fee updates.
Our calculator provides an indicative fee based on official planning submission charges set by local authorities across the UK. Here’s what is and isn’t included:
✅ Included:
We created this UK planning fee calculator not as a complete project quote, but as a helpful guide to start your budgeting. For exact costs, especially on larger or more complex schemes, we always recommend speaking to one of our architects at dRAW Architecture.
After receiving your planning application fee estimate, we offer tailored recommendations based on your project details. These may include:
At dRAW Architecture, we believe in giving you more than just numbers; we want to guide you through the process from idea to approval. Book a free consultation through our calculator page and get expert guidance on your next steps.
One of the most common questions we hear is: “Do I need planning permission?” The answer depends on the type, size, and location of your proposed development.
You likely do need planning permission if:
You may not need it if:
To be sure, consult with an architect. At dRAW Architecture, we offer free initial assessments to determine whether your project needs permission, and if so, how to achieve it efficiently.
The cost ranges from £206 for a standard extension to £462+ for new builds. Commercial projects may reach £1,000 or more, depending on floor area.
No, planning permission is not free. However, if your project qualifies under Permitted Development Rights, you may not need to apply or pay.
London follows England’s national fee schedule, but some boroughs charge for Pre-App Advice or Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) on top of planning fees.
You can apply yourself via the Planning Portal, but many applications fail due to technical errors. An architect ensures compliant drawings, correct forms, and stronger approval chances.
Standard applications take 8–10 weeks, but complex or listed developments may require 12+ weeks. It’s best to plan early and factor this into your project timeline.
At dRAW Architecture, we specialise in bespoke residential and commercial design, planning applications, and listed building consent across the UK. With offices in London, Cheshire, and Edinburgh, we understand regional planning rules and maintain close relationships with local planning authorities.
Why clients trust us:
Visit our portfolio or book a free consultation to get started.
Not sure how to proceed after calculating your fee? Our team is here to help. We offer a free 20-minute planning advice call to review your project, assess your result, and recommend the most efficient route forward.
Book your free planning consultation
Bring your calculator results with you, and we’ll discuss your next steps, from concept to consent.
This planning application fee calculator is a guide only and reflects common fee structures across England, Wales, and Scotland. Actual fees may vary depending on the specifics of your local planning authority, the nature of your project, and any additional services or documents required. Always consult directly with your architect or planning consultant for a final cost estimate.