14. Application for a Lawful Development Certificate for an existing use or operation or activity including those in breach of a planning condition
You may prefer to submit a planning application online. Applications can easily be submitted through the Planning Portal.
What you need to do
On this page you will find a downloadable application form if you need to apply on paper. You will need to print the form, complete it and return with the required documentation and fee to EHDC's Planning Services.
There are separate forms and guidance notes for sites outside and inside the South Downs National Park.
The government has provided guidance notes for this type of application, which are also attached. Finally, you need to look at the local checklist (see the rest of this page) which we have put together to help make sure you have provided the necessary information. The checklist includes links to pdf documents or webpages (either on this or an external website) you will need to refer to.
If you believe you do not need to provide elements of the required information, you should include your reasons in your application.
Important - most common omissions resulting in invalid applications
National requirements
- Completed form (1 original + 3 copies to be supplied unless the application is submitted electronically)
- A plan which identifies the land to which the applications relates drawn to a scale of 1:1250 or 1:2500 and showing the direction of North (4 sets to be supplied unless the application is submitted electronically)
- Such evidence verifying the information included in the application as can be provided
- Such other information as is considered to be relevant to the application
- The appropriate fee
Site outside South Downs National Park
Application form for a Lawful Development Certificate for an existing use
Guidance notes
Site inside South Downs National Park
Application form
Guidance notes
Checklist to complete and submit with all applications
Most common omissions resulting in invalid applications
Additional information on the local requirements can be found in Part II of Planning Application Requirements (Local)
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Local requirements
Additional mandatory documents
Plans (3 copies to be supplied unless the application is submitted electronically. All plans and drawings should include: paper size, key dimensions and scale bar indicating a minimum of 0-10 metres):
Existing elevations (e.g. at a scale of 1:50 or 1:100)
Existing floor plans (e.g. at a scale of 1:50 or 1:100)
Existing site survey plan at appropriate scale
Lawful Development Certificate supporting information
(e.g. sworn affidavit(s) or other evidence)
Supporting Planning Statement (to include statement of grounds on which the certificate is sought)
Ordnance Survey license number
This must be provided for all Ordnance Survey based location and block plans