26 November 2025
Planning
Planning in the New Forest National Park
Our planning function plays a vital role in preserving the unique character of this protected landscape by carefully managing development and land use.
By balancing the needs of local communities with strong conservation principles, we help safeguard the National Park’s special qualities for future generations while supporting sustainable, well-designed development that fits its exceptional setting.
Check if a property is in the National Park
Before submitting a planning enquiry or application, it’s important to check whether a property is within the New Forest National Park boundary. Some addresses fall under neighbouring planning authorities, even if they have a New Forest postcode. Use our postcode checker below to quickly confirm whether a property is in the National Park.
Interactive planning map
Check planning applications, administrative boundaries tree preservation orders, listed buildings and more on our interactive map
Planning map
This page comes with a guide on how to use the map
Go to map Go to mapPlanning guidance
Do I need planning permission?
Learn more Learn moreApply for planning permission
Find out more Find out moreSearch for a planning application
View or comment on an existing application
Learn more Learn moreRaise a concern
Tell us about a development you think may breach planning conditions
Learn more Learn morePlanning policy
How our planning policies help protect the National Park
Find out more Find out moreTrees and planning
Protected trees in the planning process
Find out more Find out moreBuilding design
We support high standards of design in new development while retaining and enhancing the distinctive character of the natural and built environment
Find out more Find out moreHistoric building conservation and archaeology
We advise on all aspects of the historic built environment, from listed buildings to conservation areas
Find out more Find out morePlanning FAQs
See all our commonly asked planning questions - in one place
Find out more Find out moreUseful links
Planning committee
Find out more about how our planning decisions are made
Learn more Learn moreHow is my personal information protected?
Learn more Learn moreContact us
- Email: planning@newforestnpa.gov.uk
- Write in: The Planning Team, Lymington Town Hall, Avenue Road, Lymington, SO41 9ZG
- Telephone: A duty officer is available on the telephone (01590 646615) from 10am to 11.45am, Tuesday to Thursday, to assist with general planning enquiries from members of the public. This is a free service.
Planning applications can currently only be viewed on our website.
The Planning Department aims to deliver a good service. To help us we would welcome your feedback on how we are doing or how we can improve.
In the first instance, all comments, compliments and informal planning complaints should be addressed to:
David Illsley
Interim Head of Planning and Place
New Forest National Park Authority
Lymington Town Hall
Avenue Road
Lymington
SO41 9ZG
If you want to make a formal complaint, please refer to our complaints procedure.