The planning process is often described in terms of approval or refusal. However, before those decisions are reached, there is a critical administrative stage known as validation.
Validation is the process by which a local planning authority checks that an application contains all necessary information to allow it to be assessed properly.
What Happens During Validation?
When an application is submitted, officers review it against:
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National statutory requirements
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The council’s local validation checklist
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Planning Portal technical standards
They are not assessing whether the development is acceptable. Instead, they are confirming that the application is complete.
If required documentation is missing, the authority will issue a validation notice requesting further information.
Why Validation Is So Important
Without validation, the application cannot proceed to consultation, assessment or decision. The official determination timeframe only begins once validation is complete.
For applicants, this stage is administrative but highly consequential.
National vs Local Requirements
National requirements apply to all applications. These include:
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Completed application form
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Ownership certificate
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Location plan
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Correct fee
Local requirements vary by council and depend on the nature of the proposal. These may include:
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Design and Access Statements
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Tree surveys
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Flood risk assessments
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Heritage impact statements
Understanding these layers is essential for submission readiness.