Use the planning application search tool to build targeted searches across the UK, review individual results, save reusable presets, and export findings for offline analysis. This guide helps you quickly narrow results using filters, inspect applications, and download a CSV report.
1. Open the planning application search and define the search area 0:00
Start in the planning application data search tool.
Use the filters on the left-hand side to narrow the dataset.
Begin by defining the location scope for your search.
Choose one of the following methods:
Enter a generic area or postcode and set a radius.
Use the circle tool to draw a radius manually.
Use the shape tool to create a custom cutout area.
Keep the search area as broad or as specific as needed for your task.
2. Refine the location and correct any drawing mistakes 0:57
If needed, add multiple drawings or points to expand the search area.
To edit a shape, click and drag the points at the ends of the drawing.
If the drawing is incorrect, use the clear selected option to remove it.
Rebuild the location boundary from scratch if necessary.
Confirm the target area is accurate before moving to the next filters.
3. Apply core search filters 1:21
Review the available filter categories and apply only the ones relevant to the search.
Use the reference field if you are searching for a specific reference type outside this section.
Set property value criteria, such as searching for properties over a chosen amount.
Apply max number of dwellings if required.
Add EPC value filters if relevant to the search objective.
4. Narrow by application type and exclusions 1:52
Select the application types that match your search goal.
Examples include:
Full applications
Change of use
Listed building applications
Conservation area applications
Watch the result count on the right-hand side as filters are applied.
Add more specific categories such as extensions or lofts if needed.
Exclude unwanted records, such as retrospective applications.
Choose decision statuses that fit the search, such as undecided or approved.
Multiple decision types can be selected at the same time.
5. Set class use and date criteria 2:42
Review proposed class use options.
Select broad residential or specific class uses if required.
Leave class use unticked if all class types are acceptable.
Apply a date filter using one of the available options:
7 days
30 days
90 days
A custom date range
Use a custom range when you need a specific period, such as from the start of the year.
Confirm the result count has narrowed to a manageable number.
6. Save the search as a preset for future use 3:25
If the search is useful and likely to be reused, save it as a preset.
Select Save Preset.
Enter a clear name that describes the search criteria.
Save the preset so it can be reused later.
Return to the search anytime by selecting Load Preset in the top-right corner.
7. Review results and inspect individual applications 3:44
Hide the search shape using the blue button if you want a clearer view of the results.
Open the Results section at the top of the filters.
Scroll through the list and review applications one by one.
Observe how the location changes as you move through the results.
Open any application to view full details, including:
Application information
Agent name
Location map
Supporting documentation
Ensure the location boundary is correct before applying additional filters, as an inaccurate area will affect all results.
Be careful when excluding application types so you do not remove relevant records unintentionally.
Check that multiple decision statuses or class uses are selected only when appropriate for the search objective.
Verify date ranges before saving a preset to avoid reusing an incorrect search later.
Review the final result count to confirm the search is neither too broad nor too narrow.
Start broad, then narrow the search step by step to understand which filters reduce the result set most effectively.
Use presets for recurring searches to save time on future lookups.
Use custom drawing tools when postcode or radius searches are not precise enough.
Keep preset names descriptive so team members can quickly identify the search criteria.
Export to CSV when you need to analyze results outside the platform or share them with others.
