Planning application reference numbers
The easiest way to understand the reference number is to refer to the application form in the documents section on public access, the type of application is the title of the application form. The reference number is just an abbreviation of the type of application and some other numbers/letters that make it a unique reference number – there are various different conventions for creating these, it will normally include the year that it was submitted too, e.g., 25 for 2025.
For example, ZC25/01165/TCON:
- ZC25_01165_TCON-APPLICATIONFORMREDACTED-8396325.pdf
- Application for Tree Works: Works to Trees Subject to a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) and/or Notification of Proposed Works to Trees in a Conservation Area
- The statutory instrument that the application type will be considered under is also part of the title: Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (as amended)
- As this reference two types of application, you can scroll down to the “What are you applying for?” section of the application form where you can see the applicant has indicated they are applying to carry out works to tree(s) in a conservation area and not a tree subject to a Tree Preservation Order
Or, ZC25/01114/PNA:
- ZC25_01114_PNA-APPLICATIONFORMREDACTED-8395482.pdf
- Application to determine if prior approval is required for a proposed: Erection, Extension or Alteration of a Building for Agricultural or Forestry use
- Statutory instrument: The Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015 (as amended) – Schedule 2, Part 6
There are user guides for the systems used by North Yorkshire Council
Old HBC area: Idox Public Access 3.1 for Planning – User guide
How to respond to planning applications
The National Association for Local Councils is promoting recent guidance published by CPRE (The countryside charity). This is in two parts. Part one is an introduction and informative background to the English planning system. Part two sets out clear steps you could take to respond effectively to a planning application.How to respond to Planning Applications guide