Overseeing the planning system
We oversee Scotland's planning system and we are responsible for the development and implementation of legislation and national planning policy. We are currently carrying out a wide reform of the planning system.
Our aim is for a planning service that is efficient, inclusive, fit for purpose and sustainable. The planning system plays a key role in delivering high-quality places for Scotland. It balances competing demands to make sure that land is used and developed in the public's long-term interest.
The eDevelopment.scot service, provides a frontline service for those submitting applications for planning permission and related appeals online. Applications can be made on the eplanning.scot website
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Planning authorities
The primary responsibility for the delivery of the planning service in Scotland lies with the 32 local authorities and the two national park authorities: Cairngorms and Loch Lomond and the Trossachs.
Planning authorities are responsible for administering the three main parts of the planning system:
- development planning – setting out how places should change in the future using plans
- development management – making decisions on planning applications. Decisions must be guided by policies in the development plan
- enforcement – making sure development is carried out correctly and taking appropriate action when it is not
Agencies
Scottish agencies, such as Scottish Water, Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH), Transport Scotland and Historic Environment Scotland, have a duty to engage in the development plan process at different stages and can be statutory consultees on certain types of planning application. The Key Agencies Group encourages agencies and authorities to work together on the preparation of development plans, providing specialist knowledge and expertise along with the sharing of good practice.