England · National documents
Determining a planning application
Explains decision timescales, material considerations, decision notices and the reasoning behind planning decisions.
AI-generated summaries of the linked official sources; not editorially reviewed. Sources and limits
Where this document applies
England: relevance depends on the proposal, site and planning process.
Determining a planning application (official source, opens in a new tab) · Reference ID 21b-001-20140306
Distinguish the statutory period from an agreed extension
Decision periods depend on the application type and begin after validation. The guidance allows a longer period agreed in writing and distinguishes the government’s planning guarantee from the statutory time limits; one should not be substituted for the other.
Read the official source (official source, opens in a new tab) · Reference ID 21b-001-20140306
Limits and checks
- This national source does not establish the local policies, designations or site facts that apply to an individual proposal.
- Some guidance predates the August 2026 Framework and may refer to earlier policy numbering. Read it with the current Framework and any applicable transition provisions.
Read alongside this document
Put the national source in your local context
Start with the exact refusal reason. Note the policy and paragraph it cites, then check your authority’s policy summary and the facts discussed in relevant appeal decisions. Each appeal turns on its own facts and does not predict another outcome.