Sources and Methodology

Last reviewed: 18 September 2026

This page explains where the calculator’s figures come from, how a result is produced, and what the tool cannot determine. It is intended to make the estimate easier to check rather than asking visitors to take an unexplained number on trust.

Primary sources

How the calculation works

The visitor first selects an application category. Where the statutory schedule uses a fixed amount, the calculator returns that amount. Where it uses a number of dwellings, site area, or floorspace, the calculator applies the corresponding rate bands, rounding rules, and caps described in the current schedule. Where a reduction or exemption is selected, it is shown separately in the result breakdown.

What the result includes

The main result is the estimated statutory application fee. Where applicable, the result also identifies the separate Planning Portal service charge and VAT so that visitors do not confuse an online submission charge with the statutory fee paid to the Local Planning Authority.

What the result does not determine

The tool cannot determine whether a proposal needs planning permission, whether permitted development rights apply, which application category an authority will accept, or whether a project qualifies for a particular exemption. The authority assesses the application as submitted. Always confirm the category and amount before payment.

Update process

Fee figures and explanatory pages should be reviewed when annual indexation or an underlying regulation changes. Proposed reforms are not treated as current law until the relevant legal change takes effect. If you identify an outdated figure or broken source link, please use the Contact page and include the page URL and official source showing the correction.

Independence and limitations

Planning Portal Fee Calculator is a private, independent reference website. It is not an official government service and does not provide legal, planning, surveying, or financial advice.