Dartmoor National Park
Good
Performance rating out of 100, based on approval rate, decision speed and appeal outcomes
Dartmoor National Park is located in the South West and covers a beautiful and protected landscape that spans across Devon. The planning authority takes a balanced approach to development, approving the vast majority of householder applications while carefully protecting the special character of the moorland and surrounding areas. You can expect a generally supportive attitude towards reasonable home improvements, though applications do need to respect the unique environment.
Approval Rate
93%
of householder applications approved
Decided Within 8 Weeks
67%
meet the statutory target
Appeal Overturn Rate
32%
of refusals overturned on appeal
What to Expect
When you submit a planning application to Dartmoor National Park, you have a very good chance of approval, with 93% of householder applications being granted permission. However, you should be prepared for the process to take a little longer than usual, as only 67% of applications are decided within the standard 8 week timeframe, meaning some applications take between 8 and 13 weeks. The good news is that if your application is refused, there is a reasonable chance of success on appeal, with 32% of refused applications overturned. Overall, this is a supportive authority for homeowners, though patience is sometimes required.
Local Planning Considerations
Dartmoor National Park is a protected landscape, which means there are stricter rules about how buildings can be altered compared to other parts of the country. Many properties within and around the park are particularly sensitive to change, so applications involving alterations to the exterior appearance, extensions, or new structures need especially careful consideration. You should also be aware that conservation areas within the park have additional protections, and some areas may have specific design guidance that you will need to follow.
Tips for Homeowners
Start by obtaining detailed advice from the planning authority about how your specific proposal fits with local design and landscape guidance, as understanding these requirements early on will help you create an application that is more likely to succeed. Make sure your drawings and supporting information clearly explain how your proposal respects the character of Dartmoor and the surrounding landscape, as this is central to how the authority assesses applications. Consider engaging with the planning officer before you formally submit your application, as pre application advice can help you refine your ideas and avoid unnecessary delays or refusals. Finally, be realistic about timescales and allow at least 12 weeks for your application to be decided, giving yourself a buffer in case the process takes longer than the standard 8 weeks.
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