Q1. Do you agree with the above proposal to introduce a set fee for non-material changes applications?
Yes, it is common practice in the other jurisdictions to charge a fee for non-material changes. This proposal will bring NI into line with other jurisdictions and reflect the amount of time it takes for officers to work on non-material changes applications.
Q2. Do you agree with the above proposal to set the fee level at £115 for non-material changes applications?
Yes, some non-material changes applications can be complicated and time-consuming, whereas others can be simple and quick to turn around. Therefore the fee level of £115 reflects an average. It would be too complicated to introduce a sliding scale of fees so an average sum is appropriate.
Q3. Do you agree with the above proposal to introduce a set fee for discharge of conditions applications?
Yes, It is common practice in the other jurisdictions to include a fee for discharge of conditions. This proposal will bring NI into line with other jurisdictions and reflect the amount of time it takes for officers to work on discharge of conditions applications.
Q4. Do you agree with the above proposal to set the fee level at £115 for discharge of conditions applications?
Yes, the fee of £115 seems low for some discharge of conditions applications which can be complex and take a great deal of planning officer time. However, we acknowledge that an average sum is proposed and it needs to be consistent to facilitate implementation, and therefore the level of £115 is acceptable.
Q5. Are there any other planning applications types or planning services which are not currently charged for, but which in your view should attract a fee?
Pre-Application Discussion, Other - Welsh Government has recently amended and significantly increased fees for planning applications, amendments, deemed applications and related matters in Wales from 1 December 2025, including fees for applications for certificates of lawful use of development, fees for certain applications under the General Permitted Development Order, fees in respect of the monitoring of mining and landfill sites, fees for non-material changes to planning permissions, and fees for post-submission amendments to major development. This is a step towards full cost recovery for planning applications and includes an annual inflationary uplift.
These changes could all be considered in Northern Ireland too. However, it is essential that increased fee income is ringfenced to reinvest in planning service improvements. An increase in any fees must be matched by an improvement in the planning service, otherwise any changes will lead to more disillusionment with the service.
Fees for Tree Preservation Orders should not be introduced as it may dissuade applications for TPOs.
Q6. Are there any other planning applications types or planning services for which the current fee level or structure is inappropriate/insufficient?
Yes, Please see answer to Question 5.
Q7. Do you agree with proposals for planning fees to continue to be adjusted annually in line with inflation?
Yes, this makes an efficient use of DfI and government resources by avoiding the need for recurring consultation and regulations and provides certainty to stakeholders.
Q8. Do you agree that the Bank of England CPI is the most appropriate index measure to use?
Yes
