The Standard Planning Application Form (1APP) was introduced by Communities and Local Government and the Welsh Assembly Government to replace all existing types of planning application forms (except minerals) within England and Wales.

Previously, Local Planning Authorities (LPAs) produced their own planning application forms, which often differed from one another and were inconsistent in the information they asked for from applicants.

1APP removes the differences in application forms by ensuring the same information is requested for comparable applications by every LPA in England and Wales. This standardisation helps make the planning system clearer and more efficient for planning professionals and citizens alike.

The new form is the only legal way to apply for planning permission (except minerals) in England and Wales.

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The level and detail of information, supplied with the planning application, relating to trees and hedges, depends on the type of planning application being submitted.

Example A: A Householder Application for Planning Permission for Works or Extension to a Single Dwelling may only require;

• the species of the trees and hedges to be named if known.

• trees and hedges that will need to be removed or pruned, in order to carry out the proposed development, should be numbered.

Example B: An Application for Full Planning Permission/Change of Use/Renewal of Permission will require;

• a full tree survey to comply with the requirements of British Standard 5837:2005 Trees in Relation to Construction – Recommendations.

• a suitable plan to scale, showing tree survey information, retention categories for trees and hedges and root protection areas.

• an assessment of the arboricultural implications of the development including trees and hedges to be removed and/or retained.

• an arboricultural method statement detailing the means of tree and hedge protection, implementation and phasing of proposed works.

• the above to be undertaken by a qualified arboriculturist.