Most councils charge for pre-application advice, and highways advice is sometimes charged separately. For a small scheme, it is fair to ask whether it is worth it.
When it is worth it
- A new access, or a changed one, onto a busy or fast road
- A site with a history of highways objections
- Parking below the local standard
- A layout that relies on a shared surface or private drive
- Any doubt about what level of transport evidence is needed
When you can probably skip it
- A small scheme using an existing access unchanged
- A quiet residential street with good visibility
- Parking and refuse that clearly meet the standards
Two councils, two pre-apps
In two-tier areas, the district or borough decides the application, but the county council is the highway authority. Their highways pre-application service can be separate, with its own fee. Check how your area works before you book.
Get the most from it
- Send a plan and a short note setting out the access, parking and servicing.
- Ask specific questions, such as what visibility is needed and what report is required.
- Ask for the response in writing, so it carries weight at application stage.
General information, not advice on a specific site. Policy and guidance correct as of October 2026.