What file formats are accepted for online applications?

The Planning Portal application service can accept files in the following formats:

• Adobe PDF - .pdf
• Images - .bmp, .gif, .jpg / .jpeg, .png, .tif
• CAD (HPGL) - .plt
• Microsoft Office - .doc / .docx, .xls / .xlsx
• Text - .rtf, .txt
• Video – .avi, .mov, .mp4 .mpg / .mpeg, .wmv
• GML - .gml

If you wish to submit supporting documentation by any other method, we recommend that you use the file types listed above wherever possible. If you wish to use any other file type, you should check with your local authority before submission as they may not be able to accept them.

File size - Some authorities don't accept files that exceed 10MB. If your document exceeds this, please refer to our guidance on reducing file sizes¹

1. https://ecab.planningportal.co.uk/uploads/1app/1app_tips_reduce-file-size.pdf