Lewisham Planning Portal: Search, Applications & Permission
Use this guide to search Lewisham planning applications, log in to track or save searches, check public notices, understand map and conservation-area checks, comment with planning reasons, and avoid using the wrong application route.
The Lewisham planning portal is for finding existing planning records and comments. New applications usually go through the national Planning Portal, then Lewisham validates and decides the case using its own local requirements.
Quick answer: use Lewisham Public Access to search and comment on planning applications and decisions. You can search by keyword, application reference, postcode or a single line of address. Use advanced search when you need filters such as ward, conservation area, status, decision, appeal decision, applicant, agent or date range.
Use Lewisham’s register to read existing records. Use Planning Portal when you are submitting a new application. Use Lewisham’s validation, BNG, conservation, window, Article 4 and pre-application pages before paying a fee or uploading plans.
Start With the Correct Lewisham Planning Route
The phrase “Lewisham planning portal” can mean several tasks. Pick your route first so you do not search for local applications inside the national Planning Portal or submit a comment in the wrong place.
I want to find a planning application
Use Lewisham Public Access. Search by reference, postcode, address, keyword, advanced filters, weekly/monthly lists or property search.
I want to comment or object
Open the case, read the documents and submit a planning-focused comment online, by email or in writing. Anonymous comments are not accepted.
I need Lewisham planning portal log in
Register inside Lewisham Public Access. Main Lewisham Council login details do not work on these planning pages.
I need a map or conservation check
Use Public Access for records, Lewisham’s interactive map for local layers where available, and London planning data tools for wider London context.
I want to apply for permission
Use Planning Portal for online submission, then check Lewisham validation requirements before you upload documents or pay fees.
I am in a conservation area
Check conservation, Article 4 and window guidance before changing roofs, windows, doors, hardstanding, boundary treatments or visible external features.
Lewisham Planning Applications Search: Best Order
Lewisham Public Access search works best when you use the cleanest search term first, then broaden only if nothing appears.
Start with the application reference
Lewisham references commonly look like DC/26/145000. Copy only the reference from the site notice, letter, email, public notice or planning history record.
Use simple search for fast lookups
Simple search accepts a keyword, application reference number, postcode or a single line of an address. Try one clean input, not a full sentence.
Use advanced search for filters
Advanced search lets you filter by reference, alternative reference, description keyword, applicant, application type, ward, conservation area, agent, status, decision and date ranges.
Use property search for planning history
Property search is useful when you need current or historical cases for a specific address. Search by UPRN, property name/number, street, locality, town or postcode.
Open the full record before acting
Read the application summary, important dates, drawings, documents, related cases, comments, decision notice, case officer information and appeal details where shown.
Lewisham Planning Portal Log In, Register, Track and Save Searches
You can view many records without an account, but registration gives extra tools. Lewisham’s registration page warns that this planning service is not part of the main Lewisham website, so normal Lewisham Council log-ins will not work here.
Create a Public Access account
Register with your name, email and password. Lewisham sends a confirmation email. Use the link in that email to activate your account.
Track a specific application
Search the application, open the record and use “track”. Tracked applications can appear in your profile and notify you when status changes or documents are added.
Save searches
Save a search from search results and choose email notifications. This is useful for streets, development sites, large properties and repeated proposal locations.
Lewisham Planning Portal Map and Constraint Checks
Search users often want a “Lewisham planning portal map”. For application records, use Lewisham Public Access searches. For wider planning context, use Lewisham’s interactive map and London planning data tools where they are available and working in your browser.
| Map task | Best source | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Find applications tied to one address | Lewisham Public Access property or advanced search | Use postcode, street, UPRN, property name or reference first. |
| Check conservation area context | Lewisham conservation pages, Article 4 PDFs and interactive map layers | Confirm whether the site is inside a conservation area or Article 4 area. |
| Check London-wide planning context | Planning London Datahub | Use layers such as conservation areas, listed buildings, town centres, brownfield and open space where relevant. |
| Prepare a planning application plan | Planning Portal map/location plan guidance | Use a proper location plan with red-line boundary. Do not rely on a screenshot as a legal plan. |
Weekly and Monthly Lists for Lewisham Planning Applications
Weekly and monthly lists help you find recent activity without knowing a reference number. Lewisham’s Public Access weekly list lets users search planning applications validated or decided in a given week.
Use weekly list for fresh cases
Select the week beginning, then choose whether to show applications validated in that week or decided in that week.
Use ward filters
For busy areas, filter by ward before reviewing results. This is useful for conservation-heavy areas and major regeneration zones.
Documents to Open Before You Comment, Buy or Build
The proposal summary is not enough. Lewisham’s online planning service can show drawings, documents, constraints, related cases, decision notices and case officer details.
| Document or record | What it tells you | Micro-check before acting |
|---|---|---|
| Application form | Applicant, agent, site, proposal, certificates and description. | Check whether the description matches the drawings and site notice. |
| Site location plan | Where the application site is and the land included. | Check red-line boundary, roads, access, nearby land and whether two roads are visible where required. |
| Block plan and drawings | Layout, height, roof, windows, sections, elevations, levels and materials. | Check latest revision, scale bar, north arrow and site relationship with neighbours. |
| Design, access and heritage statements | Applicant’s explanation of design, policy, access and heritage impact. | Compare the statement with actual conservation area, listed building or street context. |
| Technical reports | BNG, ecology, fire, flood, SuDS, transport, noise, air quality, energy and community impact. | Check whether the report is required for the application scale, location or type. |
| Public comments and consultation | Neighbour, consultee and community responses. | Remember that public comments may not be directly viewable on Public Access due to GDPR; redacted copies can be requested from Lewisham. |
| Decision notice | Approval, refusal, conditions and approved plan numbers. | Read every condition before assuming work can start. |
| Related cases | Earlier applications, appeals, amendments, enforcement or condition discharge. | Open related cases before buying, objecting, reporting a breach or applying for changes. |
Comment, Object or Support on a Lewisham Planning Application
Lewisham says comments can be submitted online, by email or in writing. Your comment should include the application number or site address, your name and address, and the date of your comment.
Check whether comments are allowed
Lewisham says users can comment on planning applications except for lawful development certificates, approval of details, advert consent, non-material amendments and EIA screening.
Check the exact deadline
Lewisham says you usually have 24 days from publication, but this can vary. Check the site notice, neighbour letter, notification publicity or live portal date.
Use planning reasons
Write about policy, amenity, privacy, sunlight, overshadowing, overlooking, highways, heritage, biodiversity, design, noise, land use, social infrastructure or pollution where relevant.
Avoid invalid or weak points
Do not focus on property value, construction noise, loss of view, business competition, moral/religious objections, private boundary disputes, restrictive covenants or issues covered by other legislation.
Do not expect an individual response
Lewisham acknowledges comments, but says it will not respond to individual comments except in limited situations such as significant proposal changes, committee notification or decision notification.
Check Lewisham Planning Permission Before You Apply
Do not assume a project needs permission, and do not assume it is permitted development. Lewisham properties can be affected by flats, HMOs, listed buildings, conservation areas, Article 4 directions, prior permissions, roof changes, window rules and local policies.
Houses
Check extensions, roof alterations, external materials, hardstanding, boundary treatments, solar equipment, outbuildings and chimneys, especially in conservation areas.
Flats and HMOs
Lewisham’s window guidance says flats and HMOs with over six unrelated occupants can need planning permission for replacement windows even outside conservation areas.
Lawful development certificates
Use a proposed or existing lawful development certificate when you need formal planning proof, especially for sale, refinancing, enforcement risk or long-standing works.
Lewisham Planning Permission in a Conservation Area
Conservation areas and Article 4 directions are major local search intents for Lewisham. A proposal that looks simple elsewhere may need permission if it affects external appearance, visible elevations or historic character.
| Work type | Lewisham conservation-area risk | What to check first |
|---|---|---|
| Side extension | Planning permission may be required because of conservation-area status. | Check conservation area boundary, Article 4, design guidance and neighbour relationship. |
| Rear extension above single storey | More likely to need permission in a conservation area. | Check visibility, scale, daylight, privacy and street/plot character. |
| Cladding | External cladding can require permission in conservation areas. | Check materials, elevations visible from public viewpoints and heritage impact. |
| Roof alterations | Any addition or alteration to the roof is specifically flagged by Lewisham for conservation-area houses. | Check roofscape, dormers, rooflights, materials and Article 4 restrictions. |
| Satellite dish, antenna or solar equipment | Visible equipment on public-facing elevations can need permission. | Check whether the elevation faces or is visible from a highway or public place. |
| Boundary, hardstanding or front garden works | Article 4 directions can restrict gates, walls, fences, drives and front-garden paving. | Check the exact Article 4 PDF for your street or conservation area. |
Replacement Windows, Flats, Listed Buildings and Article 4
Window replacement is one of the most common Lewisham planning permission edge cases. It is especially important for conservation areas, flats, HMOs, listed buildings and Article 4 directions.
When permission is likely
- Listed building window replacement.
- Property in a conservation area covered by an Article 4 direction.
- Flat or maisonette where freehold/ownership issues affect the certificate.
- HMO with over six unrelated occupants.
- Visible replacement windows affecting architectural character.
Documents Lewisham expects
- Correct application form.
- Correct certificate of ownership.
- Site location plan showing the house and two roads clearly.
- Existing and proposed elevations or acceptable photographs.
- Window measurements and cross-referenced window numbers or letters.
- Listed building consent where applicable.
Apply for Lewisham Planning Permission Without Avoidable Delay
Lewisham’s apply page directs users to apply online through the Planning Portal. For forms and advice notes, Lewisham says users can pay through the Planning Portal or call 020 8314 7400, and it accepts debit or credit cards.
Confirm the application type
Choose householder, full planning permission, listed building consent, lawful development certificate, approval of details, non-material amendment, minor material amendment, advertisement consent, demolition prior notification, telecoms prior notification or tree works.
Check site constraints first
Before paying, check conservation area, Article 4, listed buildings, BLE safeguarded zone, flood risk, trees, biodiversity, local plan, affordable housing and fire-safety triggers.
Prepare national requirements
Have the correct fee, completed form, ownership certificate, site location plan, relevant plans and drawings, and any fire statement where required.
Prepare local requirements
Use Lewisham’s application-type checklist. Major, minor, householder, LDC, listed building, condition and amendment applications have different evidence requirements.
Submit clean files
Use clear titles, plan numbers, dates, north arrows, scale bars and matching revisions. Avoid uploading duplicate, blurry or inconsistent documents.
Lewisham Validation Requirements Converted Into a Checklist
Lewisham says you must include all necessary information with your application. If you do not, it cannot be validated and may be returned. If found invalid, applicants are normally given 21 days to make it valid before withdrawal.
| Application type or issue | Important Lewisham validation point | Applicant action |
|---|---|---|
| Householder application | Requires fee, form/certificate, CIL form, site location plan, plans/drawings and possibly fire statement where relevant. | Use the householder local list before uploading drawings. |
| Major development | Can require affordable housing, air quality, archaeology, circular economy, CEMP, daylight/sunlight, ecology, energy, flood, heritage, landscaping, noise, transport, tree and viability evidence. | Create a full document matrix with consultant responsibilities before submission. |
| Fire statement | Lewisham’s local list reflects London Plan and fire-safety requirements. | Check height, dwelling count, educational accommodation and national fire statement triggers. |
| Heritage or conservation | Heritage statements and conservation documents may be needed. | Explain significance, impact, materials, setting and mitigation. |
| Community Audit | Lewisham lists a local provision for redevelopment of non-residential spaces. | Check whether your proposal removes or redevelops community/non-residential floorspace. |
| Small residential sites | Lewisham says the July 2025 Local Plan introduced affordable housing financial contribution requirements for small sites delivering two to nine residential units. | Check the guidance note and calculator before finalising viability and scheme design. |
BNG, CIL, Affordable Housing and Building Safety Levy
These items can affect cost, validation and whether an approved scheme can start. Do not treat them as afterthoughts.
Biodiversity Net Gain
Lewisham says BNG became mandatory for major development proposals from 12 February 2024. GOV.UK guidance confirms applications likely to be subject to BNG must include minimum information such as biodiversity values, metric calculation, degradation statement where relevant, irreplaceable habitat details and scaled habitat plans.
- Check whether BNG applies or an exemption is supported.
- Prepare the biodiversity metric where needed.
- Show habitats on scaled plans with north direction.
- Do not submit after clearing habitat unless degradation is properly addressed.
CIL, small-site contribution and BSL
Lewisham’s validation page lists Community Infrastructure Levy forms and small-site affordable housing contribution guidance. It also says Building Safety Levy starts 1 October 2026 for certain new dwellings and new bedspaces in purpose-built student accommodation.
- Check CIL forms before submitting.
- Check small-site affordable housing contribution for two to nine residential units.
- Check whether BSL applies to relevant building-control applications or notices.
- Keep payment and submission confirmations.
Appeals, Enforcement and Post-Decision Risk
Search the planning history before assuming a breach or starting work. Appeals, enforcement and condition discharge can change the meaning of an approval or refusal.
Appeals
Use Lewisham Public Access for appeal records and the Planning Inspectorate route where relevant. Objectors normally cannot appeal simply because they disagree with an approval.
- Read the decision notice and refusal reasons.
- Check appeal deadlines for the application type.
- Use appeal search if the application status changes.
Enforcement
Use enforcement only for possible planning breaches, not private disputes. Search related cases and historic permissions before reporting.
- Check whether there is existing permission.
- Record address, dates, photos and description.
- Separate planning breach from party wall, boundary or building-control issues.
Lewisham Planning Portal Troubleshooting for Real Searches
When nothing appears, the record may still exist. Use these fixes before assuming there is no application.
| Problem | Likely reason | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| No result for reference | Reference copied with spaces, typo, wrong year or old historical format. | Try postcode, address, proposal keyword or advanced search alternative reference field. |
| Too many results | Search is too broad, such as just SE6 or a whole road name. | Add house number, full postcode, ward, date range, status or application type. |
| Need old property history | Property search only searches electronically held information. | Use property search first, then contact Lewisham Planning Information Team for a fuller history if needed. |
| Cannot use normal council login | Public Access account is separate from the main Lewisham website login. | Register inside the planning portal and confirm the email link. |
| Comment not showing publicly | Lewisham says comments are not directly viewable on Public Access due to GDPR. | Request redacted copies by emailing planning@lewisham.gov.uk if needed. |
| Map not loading | Interactive maps may require JavaScript, session access or a UK-compatible browser session. | Try another browser, enable JavaScript, use Public Access search, or check London-wide Datahub layers. |
Related UKPlanningPortal Guides for Similar Search Tasks
These internal links help users compare Lewisham with other planning-register workflows without creating duplicate doorway content.
Useful Official Lewisham Planning Links by Task
Open the official link that matches your task. Keep the address, postcode, application reference, proposal type and deadline ready before using the live service.
Independent guide note: this page helps you navigate Lewisham planning tasks. Always verify live application status, deadlines, fees, consultation notices, maps, validation documents and legal requirements on official Lewisham, GOV.UK or Planning Portal pages before acting.
Lewisham Planning Portal FAQs
Where do I search Lewisham planning applications?
Use Lewisham Public Access at planning.lewisham.gov.uk/online-applications. You can search by keyword, application reference number, postcode or a single line of address, then use advanced, weekly/monthly or property search if needed.
Do I need a Lewisham planning portal login?
You do not need a login just to view many records, but you need a Public Access account for tracking applications, saving searches and receiving email notifications. Main Lewisham Council login details do not work on the planning portal.
What does a Lewisham planning reference look like?
Recent Lewisham planning references commonly look like DC/26/145000. Older or alternative references may need advanced search, especially where historic reference formats are involved.
How do I search Lewisham planning applications by map?
Use Lewisham Public Access search for official case records. For map context, use Lewisham’s interactive map and Planning London Datahub where available, then verify any case by opening the full Public Access record.
How long do I have to comment on a Lewisham planning application?
Lewisham says the usual period is 24 days from publication, but this can vary. Always check the site notice, notification letter or live application page for the specific deadline.
Can I comment anonymously on a Lewisham planning application?
No. Lewisham says comments cannot be submitted anonymously, even if the writer asks for anonymity. Include the application number or site address, your name and address, and the date of your comment.
What planning matters should I include in an objection?
Use planning matters such as policy, amenity, privacy, sunlight, overshadowing, overlooking, highway safety, heritage, biodiversity, design, land use, noise, pollution and social infrastructure impacts.
Do I need planning permission in a Lewisham conservation area?
It depends on the property, work and whether an Article 4 direction applies. Lewisham flags side extensions, roof alterations, cladding, visible solar equipment, front-facing equipment and other external changes as possible permission triggers in conservation areas.
Do replacement windows need permission in Lewisham?
They can. Lewisham says listed buildings require permission, and houses in conservation areas covered by Article 4 directions may need permission. Flats and HMOs can also have separate permission requirements.
How do I apply for Lewisham planning permission?
Use the national Planning Portal for most online applications, then follow Lewisham’s validation requirements. Prepare the correct form, fee, ownership certificate, CIL information, plans, BNG, fire, heritage, SuDS or other documents where required.
Why might my Lewisham planning application be invalid?
It may be invalid if the form, fee, certificate, site location plan, drawings, fire statement, CIL form, BNG information, heritage statement, flood/SuDS evidence, community audit or local checklist item is missing or insufficient.
Can I see public comments on Lewisham Public Access?
Lewisham says public comments are not directly viewable on Public Access due to GDPR regulations, but redacted copies can be requested by emailing planning@lewisham.gov.uk.