Earlier this month, the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) launched a public consultation seeking views on introducing new planning fees with the aim of improving cost recovery and financial sustainability.
The deadline for responses is 5pm on 23 December 2025.
New fee for Non-Material Changes
DfI is proposing a new fee of £115 for non-material change applications. These cover small amendments to approved developments that do not alter the overall permission.
Councils currently process them without charge, but DfI believes a fee is needed to recover costs and bring Northern Ireland into line with the rest of the UK.
New fee for Discharge of Conditions
A second proposal would introduce a £115 fee for discharge of conditions applications, which confirm that planning conditions have been met.
Annual inflation adjustment
Fees would continue to rise annually in line with inflation, using the Bank of England CPI as the index measure.
Further feedback
The Department also asks for views on:
Have your say
RSUA is preparing a response to this consultation. To share your views, please contact Curtis Large, RSUA Policy and Public Affairs Officer, at curtis@rsua.org.uk
