Planning guidance gives advice on topics to guide new development. The guidance answers a lot of commonly asked questions for
- householders
- listed buildings
- businesses.
Planning quick guides
Our range of quick guides provide short introductions to a wide range of topics for
- windows
- house extensions
- sheds and incidental buildings
- use classes and permitted changes of use.
View planning quick guides - PDFs
Edinburgh design guidance
The Edinburgh design guidance sets out our expectations for the design of new development, design of streets and parking standards in Edinburgh.
Use this guidance as a basis for the planning and design of new development proposals and for all street design. It is a material consideration in assessing planning applications.
Planning application guidance on flooding
The Council has statutory duties to reduce the risk of flooding. As part of these duties the Council must not permit development which has the potential to increase flood risk.
Sustainable rainwater management
We also have a range of guidance on sustainable rainwater management. From an individual householder, to a major developer, we all need to consider where rainwater should go. This guidance was commissioned to address the practical application of the vision for water management in the City of Edinburgh. Some of our downloads might not be accessible. If you need help email planning@edinburgh.gov.uk.
Open space strategy
Green spaces that are well cared for and well connected matter for our health, wildlife and economy.
Edinburgh’s open space strategy is the city's stategy to protect, look after and expand the city's network of green spaces. It is based upon an open space audit.
The strategy should be referred to for all developments that affect existing open space or give rise to the need for new open space provision.
Green blue network
An integrated green blue strategic network has been created by the Council. It aims to bring together information the Council and key stakeholders hold on environmental green-blue and active travel assets. For a full copy of the document email