I want to search a live or decided application

Use Horsham Public Access simple search, advanced search, property search, weekly/monthly lists or map search. Start with the reference if you have it.

I want the planning applications map

Use the Public Access map search. Pan and zoom, click a case or property marker, then open the full case details before relying on the map.

I need the Horsham planning portal login

Register or log in to track applications, save searches and receive email alerts about tracked applications or new search results.

I want to comment on an application

Open the application, check the Important Dates tab and submit planning-related comments. Draft longer comments offline before pasting them in.

I want to apply for planning permission

Use the Planning Portal application service, but first check Horsham local and national requirements so your application is not made invalid.

The case starts with SDNP

If the application reference starts with SDNP or the site is in the South Downs National Park, use the South Downs planning system instead of Horsham Public Access.

How to use map search

• Open the Public Access map search page.
• Pan around the map to the desired case, property or area.
• Click a case or property to see a pop-up.
• Open the full case details from the pop-up before relying on the map marker.
• Use zoom tools or your mouse scroll wheel to move closer or further out.
• Use layers to show different case or application types.

What login/registration adds

• Track individual applications.
• Save searches for later use.
• Receive email alerts on tracked applications.
• Receive notifications about new search results.
• Save rectangular or circular map searches if you want updates for an area.
• Update profile, saved searches, notified applications and tracked applications from your account.

Location plan

Check red-line boundary, access, parking, hardstanding, land needed for works and any other land owned by the applicant shown in blue.

Plans and elevations

Check existing and proposed elevations, floor plans, roof plans, sections, dimensions, scale bars and revision dates before commenting.

Tree and landscape information

If trees on or near the site may be affected, look for tree surveys, arboricultural impact assessments and tree protection measures.

BNG and ecology documents

Look for BNG statement, habitat survey report, metric, baseline maps and habitat creation/enhancement proposals where BNG applies.

Heritage and conservation evidence

For listed buildings, conservation areas or archaeological areas, read design, heritage and historic environment evidence carefully.

Decision notice and conditions

Check decision, conditions, approved plan numbers, pre-commencement details, legal obligations, appeal status and any later condition discharge records.

Relevant planning considerations

• Planning policy, government guidance and case law.
• Previous planning decisions and site history.
• Highway safety, traffic and parking.
• Noise, disturbance and smells.
• Overshadowing, privacy and neighbour amenity.
• Effects on listed buildings and conservation areas.
• Loss of trees, design, appearance, materials and character.

Usually irrelevant or weak points

• Matters controlled by other legislation.
• Effect on property value.
• Private property rights or private disputes.
• Personal or financial circumstances.
• Loss of views.
• Moral or religious objections.
• Restrictive covenants.

Use the free online guide

Horsham offers a free online guide that asks for the development location, postcode and work details, then gives guidance on whether planning permission may be required.

Use an LDC for formal proof

A lawful development certificate is stronger than informal guidance if you need evidence for sale, lender checks, enforcement risk or future records.

Check building regulations too

Planning permission and building regulations are separate. Many structural works, new homes, loft conversions, new windows, doors and room changes can need building control approval.

Minimum national requirements

• Completed application form.
• Correct fee.
• Location plan and site plan.
• Ownership certificate.
• Notices to all owners of the application site.
• Agricultural land declaration where necessary.
• Design and access statement where necessary.
• EIA or specialist evidence where necessary.

Drawing rules applicants often miss

• Drawings must use a recognised metric scale.
• North figure and scale bar must be included.
• The wording “do not scale” must not be used.
• Electronic page size must match the stated drawing size.
• Plans must be legible and accessible.
• Only one electronic copy of each plan/document is required when submitted electronically.

BNG practical checks

Horsham explains that at least 10% biodiversity uplift is required where BNG applies. A BNG Statement is a local validation requirement, although use of Horsham’s template is optional.

• Check whether mandatory BNG applies or an exemption is evidenced.
• Major applications apply from 12 February 2024.
• Small site applications apply from 2 April 2024.
• Use the statutory biodiversity metric.
• Separate habitat, hedgerow and watercourse units correctly.
• Explain on-site, off-site or credit proposals.
• Significant on-site and all off-site BNG need long-term legal security.

Water neutrality update

Horsham says Natural England withdrew its 2021 Water Neutrality Position Statement on 31 October 2025. For applicants, the council says no water neutrality statement, SNWCS payment, or bespoke water neutrality condition/S106 is now required.

• New housing still needs Building Regulations Part G Optional Technical Standard compliance.
• Officers will continue Appropriate Assessment while the licence change takes effect.
• Existing permissions with water neutrality conditions may need s.73 or obligation variation routes.
• Current applicants should speak to the case officer about how to proceed.

Check conservation status

Use Horsham conservation area maps and character statements before changing windows, doors, roofs, boundaries, cladding, outbuildings or external appearance.

Tree work in conservation areas

Horsham states that work to any tree with a trunk diameter over 75mm at 1.5m above ground in a conservation area may require planning control checks.

Character statements matter

Adopted character statements help explain what features should be preserved or enhanced. Use them when preparing design or heritage arguments.

Historic documents

• From 2002 onwards, search Public Access planning application records.
• For 1990 to 2001, records can be published online upon request.
• For 1948 to 1989, records are not currently digital and may require a chargeable request.
• Pre-1948 development is treated as existing/original for planning purposes.
• If a decision is not available online, Horsham says users can email planning@horsham.gov.uk to request it is placed online.

Planning enforcement

• Basic details of alleged breach investigations can be searched in Public Access.
• Use advanced search and choose enforcements.
• Search by keyword, reference number, ward, parish or date range.
• At least one filter must be chosen.
• Registered users can save enforcement searches.
• The statutory enforcement register lists enforcement notices issued under legislation.