Planning Pre-application Enquiry FAQs

At Interurban Developments Ltd, we strongly advocate for early engagement with planning authorities through pre-application enquiries. This process provides clarity, reduces planning risk, and improves the likelihood of a successful planning application.

Below are some of the most common questions we receive about this important step.

What is a planning pre-application enquiry?
A planning pre-application enquiry is a formal or informal request to your local planning authority for early feedback on a proposed development before submitting a full planning application. It helps identify relevant policies, likely issues, and required documentation in advance.

Why should I submit a pre-application enquiry?
Benefits include:

• Understanding potential planning challenges upfront
• Saving time and money by avoiding unsuitable proposals
• Receiving early guidance on layout, scale, and design
• Establishing a positive relationship with planning officers
• Improving your chances of approval with a well-prepared application

Is a pre-application enquiry required by law?
No, it is not a legal requirement — but it is strongly recommended by the Scottish Government and local councils. In many cases, officers expect to see that applicants have engaged with the authority before submitting formal applications.

What information should be included in a pre-application enquiry?
We typically include:

• A location and site plan
• A short description of the proposed development
• Relevant background context (e.g. previous applications or site use)
• A planning statement referencing key local and national policies
• Visual material or sketches, if available

We prepare and submit this for you to ensure clarity and alignment with council expectations.

What type of developments benefit most from a pre-app enquiry?
Pre-application discussions are especially useful for:

• New dwellings in gardens or rural areas
• Farm diversification or tourism projects
• Commercial or mixed-use developments
• Changes of use, especially in conservation or sensitive areas
• Large or strategic housing sites

Will I receive a written response from the planning authority?
In most cases, yes. Depending on the council’s process, you may receive:

• A written response outlining relevant policies and issues
• In some cases an informal meeting or site visit can be arranged
• Advice on validation requirements and supporting reports

The quality of the response often depends on the quality of the submission, which is why we ensure your enquiry is clear, well-reasoned, and professionally presented.

How long does it take to receive a response?
Pre-application responses typically take 2–6 weeks, depending on the local authority. Some councils offer tiered services with faster turnaround times for higher fees. We liaise directly with the authority and keep you updated throughout.

Is there a fee for submitting a pre-application enquiry?
Yes. Most Scottish councils now charge a fee, which varies depending on:

• The type and scale of development
• Whether a site visit or meeting is included
• Whether it’s a written response only or a more in-depth review

We confirm likely pre-app fees in advance within our offer of professional engagement.

Can the planning authority refuse my pre-application enquiry?
No — while they are not obligated to give detailed feedback, they cannot refuse the submission itself. However, poorly presented or incomplete enquiries may receive limited or unhelpful responses. That’s why our professional input is essential.

Can Interurban Developments manage the whole process?
Yes. We offer an end-to-end service, including:

• Site assessment
• Preparation of submission materials
• Policy review and planning statement
• Liaison with the planning authority
• Follow-up advice based on the response received

We also advise on next steps, including progressing to a full planning application or refining your proposal.

Please note that the views and opinions expressed within articles on this website are the personal opinion of the author and do not represent the policies, views or opinions of the company. ALL information provided is for general guidance only and any actions or decisions the reader or user may take based upon content, information or opinion(s) expressed in this website is entirely at their own risk and liability. The information contained in this website cannot be legally relied upon at a later date and it is provided on a ‘without prejudice’ basis.