Planning
Planning Law Solicitors
Most building work and many changes of use need planning permission from the local planning authority. Planning solicitors advise on applications, appeals against refusal and enforcement action, as this guide explains in England and Wales.
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- Regulated firms
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Overview
What this area covers
Planning law controls how land and buildings can be developed and used. Local planning authorities decide most applications against their local plan and national policy, and there are rights of appeal to the Planning Inspectorate.
Common situations
When you may need a planning solicitor
- Your application has been refused and you are considering an appeal.
- You have received an enforcement notice.
- You are negotiating planning obligations on a development.
- You want to object effectively to a nearby development.
The solicitor’s role
How a planning solicitor can help
Planning solicitors advise on legal strategy, draft and negotiate agreements with councils, and prepare appeals and responses to enforcement action. They often work alongside planning consultants. Appeal deadlines can be short and are strictly applied.
Getting ready
What to prepare before contacting a solicitor
- The application and decision notice
- Any enforcement notice
- Plans and drawings
- Correspondence with the council
Choosing a solicitor
Choosing a solicitor
Look for experience of the type of project and appeal route involved.
Every firm listed on Verified Solicitors is regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. You can compare firms’ profiles, locations and reviews before getting in touch.
Find planning solicitors
Search Verified Solicitors for SRA-regulated firms that handle planning matters, then compare their profiles.
- Verified solicitors
- Regulated firms
- Free to use
A common question
Do I need a solicitor or a planning consultant?
Consultants often lead on applications. Solicitors are particularly useful for legal agreements, enforcement and complex appeals. Many projects use both.
Related legal services
The information on this page is general information, not legal advice. The law and procedures can change and how they apply will depend on your circumstances.