Apply for planning permission

Pre-application advice

In some cases, we can advise you before you make a planning application in line with the Edinburgh Planning Concordat. There is a charge for pre-application advice.

Contact the planning helpdesk for general planning enquiries.

Our advice

We will provide advice on local, major and national developments.

We don't usually provide bespoke pre-application advice on

  • householder developments
  • advertising and signage
  • simple changes of use / alterations.

Advice on proposals of this nature can be accessed in the planning quick guides.

In exceptional cases, for example, complex or sensitive developments, we may be able to provide advice. This is on a case-by-case basis at the team managers’ discretion. Contact us to discuss this. 

Advice on non-material variations does not fall within the scope of the service. Contact the relevant case officer for advice on non-material variations.

Request advice

Before requesting pre-application advice read our customer service guide. The guide sets out the level of service you will receive and the charges.

Request pre-application advice

Requests for advice should be emailed to

preapplicationadvice@edinburgh.gov.uk.

Paying for advice

We cannot accept cheques or phone payments.

Pay for pre-application advice

Planning pre-application service

You can contact the Planning pre-application service at