Call into or contact the development enquiry centre for information and advice on:

• the planning system and making a planning application;
• current and previously decided planning applications;
• the Unitary Development Plan and other policies;
• building regulations;
• council land and buildings currently for sale or rent;
• pay application fees by debit or credit card.

The centre has computer terminals where you can view basic details on all planning applications made since 1974, and a microfilm reader to view those made prior to that. You can also see details of the Unitary Development Plan and other planning policies, listed buildings and conservation areas. There is a wide range of information about the development process and current developments in Leeds. We can supply you with Ordnance Survey extracts of base plans to help you if you are making a planning application (there is a charge for this). We also hold details of council land and buildings currently for sale or rent, along with tender documents.

We recognise the need to consult with users of our services. How the Development Enquiry Centre do this is detailed in our Consultation Strategy. To view the strategy please use the link at the side of the page.

Frequently asked questions

Q.  How can I find out if a planning application has been made or has been decided?                                                                                                                            On our public access system you can see details on all planning applications going back to 1974.

Q. How do I find out if I need planning permission or building regulations approval for some building work I have planned?
Follow the link to planning portal to find out if you need planning permission or building regulations approval.  You can download our permitted development enquiry form to let us know what you would like to do.  We will reply inside ten working days if you require planning or building regulations approval.

Q. What is the best time to visit the enquiry centre?
We tend to be busier on Mondays and Wednesdays, and at all lunchtimes, so you should try to avoid these times if you can.

Q. If I contact you will I get an answer immediately?
We try to answer queries on the spot but this is not always possible. We may have to inspect a property, check its history or seek more specific advice.

Q. Can I make an appointment to visit the enquiry centre?
Yes. However, please remember that we are not always able to answer your question in full immediately.

Q. Where do I get planning application forms?
All relevant application forms and guidance are available on this website - follow the links from this page. Forms are also available from the enquiry centre, or we can post, fax or e-mail them to you.

Q. Where can I view details of current planning applications?
The enquiry centre holds copies of all planning applications submitted in the last 5 weeks. You can also follow the link to the planning applications and decisions list to see all applications and decisions made in the last year. You local library also holds copies of all applications in the local area that have not yet had a decision.

Q. If I comment on a planning application will it be treated confidentially?
No. However, if you suspect that someone is developing without planning permission, you may ask us to investigate and your request will be treated confidentially.

Q. Where can I get more information about the planning system?
The 'Planning Portal' is a national online 'onestop' resource for planning information in England and Wales. Follow the weblink to visit the site and find out almost anything you need to know about planning and development control.

Q. How can I find out who owns a particular piece of land or building?
The enquiry centre can put you in touch with our land records team who will tell you whether the council owns it. If it doesn't, you can then contact the Land Registry (follow the weblink) who may be able to help identify the owner, for a small fee.

The Land Registry office for the Leeds area is :
Land Registry, Nottingham (West) Office
Chalfont Drive
Nottingham
NG8 3RN
DX No: 10298 Nottingham (3)

Tel: 0115 935 1166
Fax: 0115 935 0038
GTN: 6208

Our service standards
We aim to give you an answer to your question as accurately and promptly as possible. All planning applications that have been submitted in the last 5 weeks 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 two working days. We will respond to written enquiries (e-mail, fax or letter) within 10 working days.

Resolved Contacts: Percentage resolved at first point of contact

Contacts