At the enquiry centre you can
- get information and advice on the planning system and making a planning application
- view basic details on computer of all planning applications made since 1974
- view planning applications before 1974 on microfiche
- see the unitary development plan, other policies, listed buildings and conservation areas
- find out about building regulations
- find information on council land and buildings currently for sale or rent
- pay application fees by debit or credit card
See our contact details on the top right hand side of this page. We are open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 8.30am - 5pm and Wednesdays 10am - 5pm. Monday and Wednesdays and lunchtimes are our busiest periods.
Copies of documents held on Microfilm - April 2012
You can still view documents on the microfilm reader in our reception area but the microfilm printer is currently out of service. We can provide you with copies, via email, fax or post, within a fe. We have access to a microfilm printer in a nearby building and arev printing requested documents each Thursday. If you require documents sooner please let us know. We apologise for the temporary delay in providing this service. We are doing all we can to resume normal service as soon as possible.
New permitted development rights for microgeneration effective 1 December 2011
The changes allow for the installation of certain microgeneration equipment on a dwelling house or within its curtilage subject to certain conditions. Some of these rights also apply to a block of flats. Where permitted development rights apply no specific application for planning permission is required.
The new legislation introduces three new classes of permitted development rights to install certain types of microgeration equipment. These are the installation, alteration or replacement of an air source heat pump (Class G) a wind turbine mounted on a building (Class H) and a stand alone wind turbine (Class I). The rights to fix wind turbines to buildings apply only to equipment installed on a detached dwelling house or to a detached building within the curtilage of a dwelling house or block of flats.
A link to the new legislation is here
Supply of OS plans for applications.
From September 2011 we will no longer supply OS plans for applications. Changes to the way the Ordnance Survey charge map agencies means that it is uneconomic for us to provide OS copies at our offices. There are a number of other map agencies available and we would refer you to them for you mapping needs.
Development Enquiry Centre retains Customer Service Excellence Standard April 2011
The team provide advice on development related matters to the public and undergo an external assessment each year to ensure the standard is being maintained.
The standard is part of a national government initiative that aims to raise the quality of service to customers by testing the ability to deliver the things which customers think are important - timeliness, quality of service, professionalism and staff attitude. More information can be found by following the Customer Services Excellence link.
New charges from 1 May 2010
From 1 May 2010 we will be introducing a charge of £50 for permitted development enquiries for non-domestic developments. These new permitted development rights were introduced by the legislation changes on 6 April 2010.
There is a £30 charge for all domestic permitted development enquires payable when you submit the enquiry. Cheques should be made payable to Leeds City Council or you can contact us on 0113 222 4409 to pay by debit or credit card. You can also apply for a certificate of proposed lawful development and get a formal planning decision.
Frequently asked questions
Below we have provided answers to a few frequently asked questions which you may find helpful.
How can I check on the progress of an application?
You can check the progress of an application on Public Access or call us on 0113 222 4409.
I'm thinking of building a conservatory/extension/garage do I need planning permission?
More information about planning permission for conservatories extensions and garages is available on this website. You can also use the interactive guide on the planning portal.
Where do I get planning application forms?
All relevant application forms and guidance are available on this website. You can also collect forms from the enquiry centre or we can post, fax or e-mail them to you.
Where can I view details of current planning applications?
The enquiry centre holds copies of all planning applications. Any applications received after 1 Jan 2009 are available online using Public Access.
If I comment on a planning application will it be treated confidentially?
No. If you suspect someone is developing without planning permission you may ask us to investigate and your request will be treated confidentially. Please see the pdf leaflet on the right called What can I do if planning rules are broken?
Where can I get more information about the planning system?
The Planning Portal is a national online resource for planning information in England and Wales.
How can I find out who owns a particular piece of land or building?
We can tell you if the council owns it. Otherwise you can contact the Land Registry who may be able to help identify the owner for a small fee.
Our service standards
We aim to give you an answer to your question as accurately and promptly as possible. All recent planning applications are available to view at the enquiry centre. If you wish to view an older application or a decision, we try to make it available within three working days. We will respond to written enquiries (e-mail, fax or letter) within 10 working days. For our full standards please see the pdf leaflet on the right hand side of this page.
Map below shows the location of the Development Enquiry Centre.