Planning guidance

You can apply for planning permission online via the Planning Portal website; alternatively you can print and return one of our application forms.

We are currently seeking feedback on the Ipswich Borough Council Draft Local Validation List 2025. This consultation will run for 4 weeks from 9am on 18 August 2025 to 11.45pm on 15 September 2025. Any comments received will be analysed and considered before the Council adopts the Draft Local Validation List 2025.

The adopted Ipswich Borough Council Local Validation List sets out all the information that Ipswich Borough Council require to be submitted prior to a planning application being validated. The Local Validation List comprises a list of documents and guidance that explains when each document is required to ensure that planning applications and other applications are supported by sufficient detailed information.

The Planning and Development Committee meets regularly to consider major planning applications and decisions.

The procedure for Listed Building Consent is similar to that for planning permission.

Planning applications registered in the past four weeks are available to download.

What is the Suffolk Coast Recreational Avoidance and Mitigation Strategy (RAMS)?

Fees payable for planning applications and pre-application advice.

We welcome the views of local residents and interest groups on planning applications.

Advice regarding public speaking at the Planning and Development Committee.

The applicant has the right of appeal to the Government against refusals.

Applications are progressed so that a decision can be made within the statutory 8-week period. Currently 80% of applications are dealt with in this period.

How to submit your objections in the form of a petition.

The type of application is revealed by the suffix lettering in its reference number.

A wide variety of leaflets are available to download. Alternatively hard copies can be obtained from the Town Planning team.

Guidance on a number of key areas.

This guidance has been prepared for the purpose of assisting developers required to submit Flood Evacuation Plans (FEP) to fulfil Planning Condition requirements associated with property development within the flood plain of Ipswich.

A developers' guide to the standards of refuse collection within the Borough of Ipswich.

Information and guidance about developments on land which is potentially contaminated.

Practical guidance for developers and agents on how to manage and mitigate flood risk in their planning applications, based on the latest Ipswich SPD.

The Ipswich Low Emissions SPD provides guidance for developers on managing air quality in new developments to comply with local policies and improve air quality across Ipswich.

Access Guidance Notes for residential development.

Help with using the Planning Online mapping system to view properties and planning application details.

Discover how Ipswich Borough Council's guide helps developers reduce carbon emissions and achieve net zero targets in their housing projects.

Discharge of planning conditions explained.