Comment on planning applications

Latest news: Online planning applications service now live

Our new search system allows you to comment on live applications online.

This page provides advice and further information on sending us your views

Our guidance on making comments

All planning applications made to the county council are subject to public consultation. You may wish to support, raise objections or suggest amendments to an application.

In reaching a decision about a planning application, Planning Officers will take into account the views of people likely to be affected by a proposed development.

Views from local residents and interest groups are welcomed and will be taken into consideration when the application is determined.

Before you comment on an application

Before submitting your comments, please note the consultation dates of the application (as stated on the public advertisement, notification letter or online details).

The closing date is usually 21 days from the start date of the letter or notice.

While we are not required to take account of comments received outside of the consultation period, we will normally do so up until the application is determined. It is helpful if your views are sent to us as early as possible.

How can I comment?

You can comment on applications via online our application search system. Live applications currently open for consultation will include an option to 'submit comments about this application.' The following screen will ask for your details and the comments you wish to make. Please note there is a 3,900 character limit.

Search applications and submit your comments

Alternatively comments can be sent by letter or e-mail to the Planning Applications Group. All comments must be in writing. You can contact the relevant Case Officer if you wish to discuss any aspect of a proposal before commenting.

In all cases your comments should:

Quote the planning application number and site address.
Only relate to planning considerations (such as planning policies, environmental or residential impacts, highway issues and opportunities for lessening the impacts of the proposal). Planning considerations do not include effects on property values.
State the reasons why you wish to support or oppose the proposed development.
Be clear and concise.

Will I be contacted?

Once we have received your comments, you will be sent a standard acknowledgement and i Data protection nformation on speaking to the Planning Applications Committee (PDF, 1.38MB). For online comments this response will be automated.

Data protection

Written comments are publicly available and cannot be treated as confidential.

Petitions relating to planning applications

Petitions relating to planning applications are not included in the council's Petition Scheme. Any such petitions should be submitted to planning.applications@kent.gov.uk.

Advising us of a planning contravention

The county council deals with the monitoring and enforcement relating to its own developments and mineral extraction and waste management sites. We ensure developers operate within the terms of their permission.

In many cases, negotiation and persuasion are used to ensure compliance is maintained. However, more formal legal action can be taken against those that habitually operate without the necessary planning permission.

For more information, see our enforcement action page.