Do I need an OS Map for Planning permission?

In most cases, yes – when you’re applying for planning permission, you’ll usually need an Ordnance Survey-based map.

This is because planning authorities need a clear, accurate way to identify the site your application relates to. The standard starting point is a location plan, usually based on up-to-date OS mapping at 1:1250 or 1:2500 scale.

Many applications also want a more detailed site plan or block plan showing the proposal in relation to the site boundary – our pages on understanding the difference will help. Local authority validation guidance commonly sets out those expectations in exactly those terms.

The plan you need should normally show:

• The application site clearly outlined in red

• Any other nearby land you own outlined in blue

• A North point

• Surrounding roads and buildings, so the site is easy to identify

• The correct scale clearly marked

There are a few variations. Sometimes, you might be asked for slightly different supporting plans, and each local authority can set its own validation requirements.

But if you’re submitting a standard planning application, then an OS-based map is usually part of the basic package. Some councils also now ask for the appropriate OS copyright notice, licence details, or a recent purchase/download date to appear on the plan.

In practice, that means it is not usually a question of whether you need an OS map - it’s more a question of which OS-based planning map you need. If you’re not sure, then our MapShop can help you get the right one quickly and in the right format for submission.

How Emapsite can help

If you can't find exactly what you need, we can also help you choose the right mapping data solution for your project via email, chat or over the phone.

For more information, reach out to our Customer Support team.

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