Updated October 2026
In short: Planning in the Square Mile is handled by the City of London Corporation. Applications are submitted through the national Planning Portal and tracked on the City's online planning register. Most schemes are commercial, and policies on heritage, tall buildings, views of St Paul's and sustainability are strict, so pre-application advice is strongly recommended.
From idea to decision
| 1 | Check if you need permission Some works are permitted development, but flats, listed buildings and conservation areas have tighter rules. |
| 2 | Pre-application advice For anything significant, the City of London Corporation's pre-application service can save time and money. |
| 3 | Prepare and submit Drawings and supporting documents, submitted with the fee via the national Planning Portal. |
| 4 | Consultation Neighbours and consultees can comment, normally for 21 days. |
| 5 | Decision Targets are 8 weeks for most minor and householder applications, 13 weeks for major schemes. |
| Common project | What to consider |
|---|---|
| Office refurbishment or fit-out | Internal works often don't need planning; external changes and change of use may |
| Change of use (e.g. offices to residential) | City policy protects office floorspace; permitted development may be restricted |
| Shopfronts, signage and advertisements | Advertisement consent and design guidance |
| Listed buildings and conservation areas | Listed building consent; heritage statements |
| Tall buildings and major schemes | Protected views, wind and daylight studies, extensive consultation |
Searching the planning register
Use the City's online planning search to look up applications by address, reference or ward. Reviewing recent decisions nearby is the quickest way to understand what's likely to be approved.
How Fraser Bond helps
- Feasibility and valuation advice before you commit to a scheme
- Introductions to City planning consultants and architects
- Office, retail and residential lettings once works complete
- Lease advice for occupiers planning fit-outs
Related guides
Fraser Bond services: Development · Commercial · Contact us
